Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Tom Hayes and Keir Mather

Thursday 8th January 2026 Commons Chamber

[Keir Mather]

The Lib Dem spokesperson is right to identify the fact that passengers deserve access to a rail network that serves their needs, which is why accessibility will sit at the heart of Great British Railways. It will have a legislative requirement, with the licensing watchdog ensuring that accessibility is always considered— there will be an accessibility duty within the Railways Bill. On fares, the Bill and the rail fare freeze will save passengers £600 million in 2026-27; contrast that with the period from 2010 to 2014, in which fares rose by 60%. If the Lib Dem spokesperson is interested in the rights of passengers and affordability on the railway, he should have supported the Railways Bill on Second Reading.

[Tom Hayes (Bournemouth East) (Lab)]

4. What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to help tackle the illegal use of e-scooters on public roads and pavements.