House of Commons · General Debate
07 June 2022 · 2 other contributors
Opened by Matt Vickers Con Stockton South
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Matt Vickers raised concerns about great british railways headquarters: stockton bid in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Proposes that the House support bringing the headquarters of Great British Railways to Stockton, emphasising its historic role in railway innovation and the importance of levelling up. He highlights the town's connection with railways dating back to the first discussions about a passenger railway line, the laying of the first track, and the selling of the first ticket.
Calls for recognition of Stockton's contribution to railway history, mentioning celebrations marking the bicentenary of the world’s first public passenger railway. He also mentions plans for a tribute to railway heritage at Preston Park and endorses local railway enthusiasts' initiatives.
Thanked her hon. Friend the Member for Stockton South for securing the debate, praised other Members for supporting bids for Great British Railways headquarters across various locations. Emphasised Stockton and County Durham's rich railway heritage, including the world’s first public railway to run steam locomotives. Highlighted 42 applications received by the time competition closed on 16 March. Discussed the Williams-Shapps plan for rail aiming at better value, flexible fares, punctual services, and modern network. Mentioned Great British Railways would be established with a modest national headquarters outside London and regional headquarters across Britain, aligning with levelling-up objectives. Announced a shortlist of locations will soon go forward to an online consultative vote after ministerial visits.