Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Sam Rushworth and Heidi Alexander

Thursday 13th February 2025 Commons Chamber

[Heidi Alexander]

I would be very happy to meet the hon. Gentleman to ensure that roads in his constituency and across London are maintained to an adequate standard. The increase of £500 million in this year’s allocation to highways maintenance represents an average 40% increase for local authorities. It will be making the difference, and I would be happy to discuss this issue with him further.

[Sam Rushworth (Bishop Auckland) (Lab)]

3. What steps she is taking to help improve local bus services.

--- Later in debate ---

[Heidi Alexander]

Network Rail is completing a strategic outline business case, covering electrification of the Calder Valley line. The business case will be considered in the context of the wider electrification strategy, so that we can determine how to deliver the best possible benefits across the region.

[Sam Rushworth (Bishop Auckland) (Lab)]

Next month, railway enthusiasts from around the world will come to my constituency, where we will mark the 200th anniversary of the Stockton and Darlington railway, which took off from the town of Shildon. Will my right hon. Friend ask the Rail Minister to meet me and other MPs along that route to talk about how the Government can be part of those celebrations?

[Heidi Alexander]

I am sure that is an invitation that the Rail Minister could not possibly refuse.