Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

North of England: Transport Infrastructure

20 May 2021 · 3 other contributors

Opened by Dan Jarvis Lab Barnsley North

EconomyTransportClimate

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Dan Jarvis raised concerns about north of england: transport infrastructure in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Dan Jarvis argued that improving transport infrastructure is crucial for economic growth, reducing inequality, and lowering carbon emissions.
  • Jarvis criticised the lack of detail in the national bus strategy and the disparity in funding allocation compared to London.
  • Stephenson highlighted significant investments such as 500,000 in bus service support grant for South Yorkshire and efforts towards a zero-carbon future.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Dan Jarvis Lab Barnsley North

Dan Jarvis argued that improving transport infrastructure is crucial for economic growth, reducing inequality and carbon emissions. He highlighted the need to sustain support for public transport amid the post-COVID recovery, emphasising the potential of buses as a key element in decarbonisation, affordability, accessibility, and integrated regional systems. Jarvis criticised the lack of detail in the national bus strategy and the disparity in funding allocation compared to London. He called for adequate long-term funding, structural reforms such as franchising, and ambitious investment in trams, active travel, rail electrification, HS2, Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR), and smaller-scale regional investments.

Other contributors (3)
  • Andrew Jones Con Harrogate and Knaresborough

    Agreed with Jarvis's points about the crucial role of transport in levelling up. Disagreed on bus deregulation impact, noting a decline in passenger numbers before deregulation.

  • Sara Britcliffe Con Hyndburn

    Called for investment in Huncoat freight terminal and the redevelopment of the Skipton to Colne railway line, highlighting their potential economic benefits.

  • Alexander Stafford Lab Rother Valley

    Emphasised the need for improved bus connectivity between Maltby and Dinnington in Rother Valley. Criticised the lack of investment in these towns compared to other areas.

Government Response

Andrew Stephenson

Stephenson acknowledged the challenges faced by northern transport due to the pandemic and highlighted significant investments made, such as £500,000 in bus service support grant for South Yorkshire. He emphasised ongoing efforts towards a zero-carbon future through active travel funding, intra-city transport settlements, and engagement with local authorities on projects like Sheffield Supertram renewal. The Minister committed to levelling up the north post-pandemic, focusing on HS2, Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR), and other rail investments. He discussed the development of a new body, Great British Railways, aiming for simpler fares, flexible season tickets, clearer compensation routes, and accountable leadership for all passengers. Stephenson also mentioned establishing NTAC for direct communication between local leaders and Ministers to unblock barriers to priority projects.

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