High-speed Rail

Debate between Sarah Newton and Lord McLoughlin

Monday 24th March 2014 Commons Chamber

[Mr McLoughlin]

Many suggestions have been made for the connection between HS1 and HS2. First, all the high-speed trains are likely to stop at Old Oak Common, which will also be served by Crossrail, and secondly Euston and St Pancras stations are not that far apart.

[Sarah Newton (Truro and Falmouth) (Con)]

HS2 could have real benefits for Cornwall, especially if the First Great Western train depot at Old Oak Common were relocated to Penzance. My right hon. Friend has received proposals from me, First Great Western and the local enterprise partnership. When will he let us know his decision?

[Mr McLoughlin]

My hon. Friend raises one of the many issues that need to be considered and resolved, but Old Oak Common is likely to become a major new transport focus for future generations, and will have an important role to play. Getting the maximum development in that area will also be very important.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Sarah Newton and Lord McLoughlin

Thursday 6th February 2014 Commons Chamber

[Sarah Newton (Truro and Falmouth) (Con)]

Although I greatly welcome today’s commitment to get our line open as soon as possible, does the Secretary of State agree that it is vital that we send out the message that Cornwall is still open for business? Will he therefore lay out plans for alternative bus services to replace the train services?

[Mr McLoughlin]

Yes, we will be considering a number of those issues and I hope shortly to be able to inform my hon. Friend and others from that area of the measures that we want to put in place. She is absolutely right that Devon and Cornwall are fantastic places to go. There have been some rough connection problems, and we have to sort them out, but Devon and Cornwall will still be a great destination for both Easter and half term.