Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Simon Burns and Peter Aldous

Thursday 16th October 2014 Commons Chamber

[Peter Aldous (Waveney) (Con)]

4. What recent discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on tackling violence against women.

[Mr Simon Burns (Chelmsford) (Con)]

6. What recent discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on tackling violence against women.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Simon Burns and Peter Aldous

Thursday 27th June 2013 Commons Chamber

[Peter Aldous (Waveney) (Con)]

4. What progress he is making on funding the refurbishment of railway stations.

[The Minister of State, Department for Transport (Mr Simon Burns)]

In the past two years, more than £238 million has been spent on schemes benefiting more than 100 stations nationally, including major investment at Birmingham New Street, London King’s Cross and Reading stations. Work includes improved access, better parking, retail outlets and ticket offices.

[Peter Aldous]

I am grateful to the Minister for that answer. Lowestoft station is Britain’s most easterly station, and while welcome work is currently taking place to improve bus interchange facilities the station itself remains shabby in appearance. Will the Minister confirm that as part of the negotiations for the extension of Greater Anglia’s franchise, the Government will do all they can to ensure that the station and its surrounds are smartened up and brought back into full use?

[Mr Burns]

Although there will be no changes in the requirements for the direct award up until 2016, my hon. Friend will be reassured to know that Abellio will be required to undertake normal repair and maintenance activities and to invest in areas where there is a positive business case. I fully understand what my hon. Friend says about the condition of Lowestoft station and the overall impression it gives, and I will certainly draw both his comments and mine to the attention of Abellio.