Oral Answers to Questions

Philip Hollobone Excerpts

Wednesday 16th March 2011 Commons Chamber

[Mr Jones]

The line to which the hon. Lady refers is in every economic impact assessment that has been prepared in connection with the current process. That consultation will not be finished until Friday, and all options remain open.

[Mr Philip Hollobone (Kettering) (Con)]

12. What recent discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for Transport on electrification of the rail network in south Wales.

[The Secretary of State for Wales (Mrs Cheryl Gillan)]

The statement made on St David’s Day by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport was excellent news for all parts of south and west Wales. This £1 billion investment will deliver all the benefits and improvements of an electrified railway to Wales, with faster acceleration, greater comfort and cleaner and greener travel. The decision to extend electrification to south Wales recognises that improved rail infrastructure and lower journey times are vital components for delivering a successful economic recovery in Wales.

[Mr Hollobone]

What estimate has the Secretary of State made of the number of new jobs that will be created in Wales as a result of the electrification programme?

[Mrs Gillan]

I hope that the electrification of the rail line, which was launched and announced with full funding by this Government, will bring the much-needed inward investment into Wales, resulting in the many jobs that we need.