National Networks National Policy Statement

The Minister emphasises the importance of revising the National Networks national policy statement to streamline planning processes for nationally significant infrastructure projects. Public consultations have been conducted, along with a review by the Transport Committee which led to several changes in the draft NNNPS. The Government’s investment in road and rail networks is substantial, including £24 billion spent on roads under the second road investment strategy and additional funding of up to £1.4 billion for regional connectivity.

The debate should address the long-awaited update to the national networks national policy statement, which was delayed for nearly three years. Bill Esterson criticises the Government's lack of action on integrating net zero targets into infrastructure planning and highlights the Prime Minister’s decision to delay the end of new petrol and diesel cars sales until 2035, estimating an additional £13 billion in higher fuel costs for drivers due to this delay. He also emphasises the impact of cancelling HS2, which would lead to half a million more lorry journeys annually, adding emissions to our roads. Esterson argues that the policy statement still leaves gaps and contradictions with climate change commitments, potentially leading to costly legal challenges and delays in infrastructure projects. The Labour Party is committed to reforming the planning system to ensure better delivery of transport infrastructure, including a credible programme for rail network upgrades and electric vehicle charging infrastructure roll-out. They will review national policy statements within six months to align them with climate obligations.

Welcomed the Government's response to the Transport Committee's scrutiny of the draft NNNPS. Emphasised the importance of a five-yearly review and welcomed several accepted recommendations, such as clarity on legal precedents for emissions and congestion forecasts publication. Also mentioned an independent review led by Lord Banner to speed up major infrastructure project delivery, but questioned the current decision-making process for transport projects.

It is a pleasure to be able to speak briefly in this afternoon’s important debate on transport infrastructure. I will raise a few points that matter to my constituents, including severe delays on the Great Western main line due to electricity supply problems. The line connects London with towns in the south-east and is of strategic importance across the UK. There have been issues with overhead wires which need addressing by the Minister. Smart motorways also require attention, particularly regarding refuge points that are too far apart for safety. I urge the Government to look at their policy on electric vehicle electrification, including increasing charging points at service areas. Additionally, potholes and encouraging walking and cycling should be prioritised as they have significant benefits for road space, pollution, road safety, and public health.

The Government are much preoccupied with the need for economic growth but do not have a national policy statement about population growth. The question arises: how many people do we wish to have in our country? What is the sustainable maximum population? Is it through encouraging more of our own people to have children or importing labour, which increases the population exponentially? Why do we have a national policy statement on national networks but not one on population growth?

The Government is dodging scrutiny by approving the national policy statement for national networks at the last minute before Easter recess. The statement fails to align with climate and environment targets, such as net zero carbon emissions. It does not address the Committee on Climate Change's recommendation of a systematic review of road schemes or close the gap in transport-related emissions reductions. Moreover, it lacks a target for modal shift towards sustainable transportation and fails to set out clear implications regarding environmental targets.

Defends the Government's approach to the national policy statement for national networks, highlighting ongoing efforts in freight strategy, rail improvements, road safety initiatives, and sustainable transport projects. Emphasises that HS2 funding has significantly increased local authority budgets and prioritised northern regions. Also mentions plans for zero-emission bus regional areas and active travel funds.

Presents a petition on behalf of individuals affected by the contaminated blood scandal, urging the Government to implement recommendations from the Infected Blood Inquiry without delay. The petition highlights the long-term suffering and injustice faced by those infected with contaminated blood products.

The Budget has failed to allocate funds for victims of the contaminated blood scandal. The petition calls on the Government to implement the recommendations made by Sir Brian Langstaff without delay to avoid further injustice due to delays in compensation. Two victims die each week from this issue, highlighting the urgency.