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Regional Growth 2025-06-04
04 June 2025
Lead MP
Darren Jones
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
EconomyTaxationTransportNorthern Ireland
Other Contributors: 59
At a Glance
Darren Jones raised concerns about regional growth 2025-06-04 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Darren Jones, stated that economic growth is the top mission of the Government. He highlighted the UK's recent progress in becoming the fastest-growing economy among G7 nations and noted an increase in real wages since July 2024, surpassing the previous Conservative government's achievements over a decade. The focus is on boosting regional growth through targeted investment, particularly in transport infrastructure across city regions to enhance productivity and economic opportunities.
Richard Fuller
Con
North Bedfordshire
The shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Richard Fuller, acknowledged the shared ambition of enabling all parts of the country to participate in growth but criticised the Government for merely imitating previous Conservative policies. He pointed out discrepancies between recent Labour announcements and previous Conservative allocations, suggesting that Labour's current promises are a copy of past initiatives.
Darren Jones
Lab
West Bromwich West
The Government has announced significant investments in various regions across the UK. These include £2.4 billion for the west midlands, £2.1 billion for West Yorkshire, and similar amounts for other areas. The Labour government is committed to delivering these promises made during their election campaign.
Meg Hillier
Lab/Co-op
Hackney South and Shoreditch
Welcomes the investment but raises concerns about supply chain issues, potential additional costs due to global shocks, and asks how the Government will manage these risks. Emphasises the need for full funding regardless of challenges.
Daisy Cooper
LD
St Albans
Welcomes investment in public transport but questions about rural growth strategy, Wales' inclusion in infrastructure projects, apprenticeship levy reform, and skills training. Asks the Government to address these issues as they are crucial for successful infrastructure development.
Clive Betts
Lab
Sheffield South East
Welcomes investment for South Yorkshire but seeks further funding for a tram-train project that will unlock sites for housing and employment growth. Asks the Government to support discussions with the Mayor of South Yorkshire to secure this extra funding.
Sharon Hodgson
Lab
Washington and Gateshead South
Welcomed the Government's announcement for Metro in Washington, highlighting Labour’s ability to deliver promises made during campaigning. Congratulated on the delivery of the Metro project after decades of effort.
Harriet Cross
Con
Gordon and Buchan
Critiqued the impact of Labour policies on regional growth in north-east Scotland, citing potential job losses, economic income reduction, and impacts on fishermen and farmers due to policy changes. Asked for a single policy that benefits regional growth.
Andy McDonald
Lab
Middlesbrough and Thornaby East
Welcomed the investment of £1 billion in the Tees Valley area, including £60 million for Middlesbrough station. Highlighted previous work on the Transporter bridge and the importance of combined authority mayors consulting local authorities.
Tim Farron
LD
Westmorland and Lonsdale
Expressed concern over lack of mention in Chancellor’s announcement for the A66 dualling project, which is vital to boosting economy and saving lives. Asked for commitment from the Government on this upgrade.
Liam Byrne
Lab
Birmingham Hodge Hill and Solihull North
Congratulated the Government on announcements supporting industrial strategy development, particularly £2.4 billion for the east Birmingham tram project which he had campaigned on for 15 years.
Julian Lewis
Con
New Forest East
Asked about anticipated impact of Treasury’s consideration for defence investments in regions resulting from recent strategic defence review, recognising significant increase in investment by Labour Government.
Bill Esterson
Lab
Sefton Central
Thanked the Minister for listening to Liverpool city region MPs and Steve Rotheram, recognising value of transport investments. Asked if announcement covers infrastructure upgrades necessary for transition to electric buses in 2027.
Andrew Murrison
Con
South West Wiltshire
Requested inclusion of South-West region in future announcements, highlighting past omissions such as A303 improvements and the need for investment in Westbury bypass and west of England rail network.
Jon Trickett
Lab
Normanton and Hemsworth
Welcomed announcement but noted historical underinvestment outside London, leading to lower wages and productivity in coalfield communities. Asked for assurance on future funding for regeneration efforts in such regions.
Tom Morrison
LD
Cheadle
Welcomes the news about Metrolink coming to Stockport and thanks Councillor Mark Hunter for his efforts. Asks if the Metrolink will come through Cheadle as well.
Emphasises that the funding announced today for city regions is beneficial for communities along transport lines. Acknowledges Cheadle's case and encourages the hon. Gentleman to raise it with the mayor in due course.
Jo White
Lab
Bassetlaw
Welcomes the shift towards funding left-behind areas like her constituency, thanks for £2 billion given to her mayor to invest in east midlands, and asks that money be used to deliver STEP programme.
Sammy Wilson
DUP
East Antrim
Raises concerns about the border post project costing businesses and disrupting transport links between Northern Ireland and Great Britain. Asks what will be done to improve these links.
Anna Dixon
Lab
Shipley
Thanks for historic investment that makes plans of Mayor of West Yorkshire real, asks if funding is included for a new bus station in Bradford, and confirms that it will bring social, environmental, and economic benefit.
Edinburgh West
Disappointed with the absence of SNP Members. Asks about Barnett consequentials from this investment for Scotland.
Emma Foody
Lab/Co-op
Cramlington and Killingworth
Welcomes the announcement on £1.8 billion of investment for transport infrastructure in north-east England, asks if approach will shape future infrastructure decisions like road investment strategy.
Ann Davies
PC
Caerfyrddin
Critiques the decision to deny Wales millions of pounds in funding for East West Rail project between Oxford and Cambridge.
Ruth Cadbury
Lab
Brentford and Isleworth
Welcomes announcement on rail and mass transit schemes, encourages similar announcements about linking northern cities with the south-east through HS2 project.
Rachael Maskell
Lab/Co-op
York Central
Welcomed the funding but noted that York did not feature in the announcement. She asked for assurances on investment in the York Central development, which will create 12,000 jobs.
Mike Martin
LD
Tunbridge Wells
Asked when Kent would receive its funding without a regional mayor and stressed the importance of Kent as the UK’s strategic corridor to Europe. He called for investment in his region to support economic growth.
Dawn Butler
Lab
Brent East
Welcomed the announcement but highlighted 14 years of neglect by the Tories and emphasised the importance of recognising London’s contribution to national economic empowerment. She asked for assurances on future infrastructure projects like the docklands light railway extension.
Gideon Amos
LD
Taunton and Wellington
Asked about the Cullompton and Wellington stations project, citing a cost-benefit ratio of almost 4:1. He urged for recognition of the strong case for this project as outlined in letters from his colleagues.
Sarah Coombes
Lab
West Bromwich
Welcomed £2.5 billion investment into the west midlands, enabling Mayor Richard Parker to extend the tram and improve connectivity within the region, driving growth not just in Birmingham but also across the Black Country.
Lisa Smart
LD
Hazel Grove
Welcomed news about the tram coming to Stockport and emphasised the need for local authorities to proceed with construction. She highlighted the project's cross-party support and called for assurance that funding is ready for immediate use.
Florence Eshalomi
Lab/Co-op
Vauxhall and Camberwell Green
Asked about specific funding details for London’s transport infrastructure projects, including the Bakerloo line extension, DLR to Thamesmead, and west London orbital. She requested that these projects be prioritised in the spending review.
Siân Berry
Green
Brighton Pavilion
Called for clean buses, reliable trains, and inclusive transport infrastructure without barriers for children, older people, and disabled individuals. She questioned whether wider Treasury rules would prioritise such projects over unnecessary road building and airport expansion.
Perran Moon
Lab
Camborne and Redruth
Welcomed the Treasury's Green Book Review but highlighted that current funding formulae do not account for unique challenges faced by remote coastal areas like Cornwall. He requested specific changes to reflect these regional disparities.
South Devon
Expressed concerns that the Government's spending review announcement might prioritise urban areas over rural ones. She requested assurances for regions like South Devon to ensure they are not overlooked in future funding decisions.
Laurence Turner
Lab
Birmingham Northfield
Welcomed the £2.4 billion investment for the west midlands and highlighted the importance of extending the metro network, particularly the Kings Norton station works, to maximize this new investment. He also congratulated Birmingham City FC on their recent achievements.
Robin Swann
UUP
South Antrim
Asked about the feasibility study for reopening the Lisburn-Antrim rail line and its potential funding through the Barnett formula, emphasising the importance of connecting Belfast International airport. He sought assurance that this project would be considered in future spending allocations.
Derby North
Welcomed the announcement as a significant step towards addressing long-standing inequality in transport funding for the east midlands and highlighted its potential to unlock economic growth and improve living standards. She praised Mayor Claire Ward's efforts.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Acknowledged the importance of regional growth and shared news about the Queen’s Parade development, which was a Conservative initiative but will be delivered under this Government. He requested further funding commitments for coastal communities to improve their tourist attractions.
James Frith
Lab
Bury North
Welcomed investment in trams and buses for Bury North and linked it to tackling child poverty, emphasising the need for economic growth as a solution. He highlighted that child poverty in his constituency is at 42%.
Mark Ferguson
Lab
Gateshead Central and Whickham
Welcomed investment for the North East combined authority region but emphasised the need for additional critical infrastructure projects, such as extending the Metro to Washington and improving underpasses and interchanges in Gateshead.
Natasha Irons
Lab
Croydon East
Welcomed funding commitments to improve transport infrastructure across the UK and specifically asked for reassurance that London communities, especially those with older trams and pockets of deprivation, would benefit from next week's spending review.
Jonathan Gribbon
Lab
Stoke-on-Trent Central
Welcomes significant investment in city regions and highlights local issues such as reinstating bus services and installing lifts at train stations. Asks for a commitment to match investment levels in non-mayoral areas.
Responds by reiterating the government's commitment to supporting all communities, including those without mayors, through increased funding and maintenance of services like buses. Acknowledges the need for mechanisms to ensure funds are effectively used in fragmented local governance areas.
Andy MacNae
Lab
Rossendale and Darwen
Welcomes investments but seeks assurances that non-mayoral authorities will see similar benefits, emphasising the importance of the Green Book review for releasing potential in left-behind areas.
Joe Morris
Lab
Hexham
Highlights long-term neglect of rural Northumberland by Conservatives and encourages recognition of growth opportunities in rural communities. Asks for investment consideration in these regions.
Chris McDonald
Lab
Stockton North
Appreciates the funding announcement for Tees Valley, including specific projects such as a crossing over A689 and restoring a transporter bridge. Requests assurance of proper governance to prevent misuse by property developers.
James Naish
Lab
Rushcliffe
Puts on record thanks for significant investment in the east midlands, highlighting historic underfunding. Asks if there will be further positive announcements at the spending review and industrial strategy meetings.
Connor Naismith
Lab
Crewe and Nantwich
Welcomes the government’s willingness to match rhetoric with action on investment in northern communities, questioning whether towns outside mayoral areas will see similar benefits.
Paul Waugh
Lab/Co-op
Rochdale
Highlights the announcement at Mellor bus factory and welcomes changes to the Green Book that could benefit local manufacturers. Emphasises the importance of Labour MPs working with mayors and government for local change.
Jonathan Brash
Lab
Hartlepool
Highlights devolution's need for accountability, questioning how to ensure £1 billion agreed for Tees Valley reaches all parts of the region, especially Hartlepool.
Antonia Bance
Lab
Tipton and Wednesbury
Welcomes funding for transport in West Midlands combined authority, highlighting local need for a new roundabout to improve traffic flow. Seeks confirmation that this addresses decades of under-investment.
Jas Athwal
Lab
Ilford South
Asks if London will receive similar support in the spending review, citing specific local infrastructure needs like Broadmead bridge and Central line upgrades.
Katrina Murray
Lab
Cumbernauld and Kirkintilloch
Welcomed recognition from the Chief Secretary to the Treasury that investment in public transport infrastructure opens opportunities for work. Highlighted cuts to bus and rail services in her constituency as a barrier to working opportunities and social activity, calling on the Scottish Government to ensure funds are spent on transport infrastructure.
Thanked Katrina Murray for making the case for her constituency. Emphasised the importance of investment in public transport for people's livelihoods and enjoyment of their communities. Noted that while Scotland faces ongoing issues under SNP governance, Labour governments in England are demonstrating positive change. Hoped for a future where both Westminster and Holyrood have Labour leadership to benefit constituencies like Cumbernauld and Kirkintilloch.
Sam Rushworth
Lab
Bishop Auckland
Recalled past announcements from the opposition which were either already delivered or cancelled. Celebrated securing the Leamside line after 20 years of campaigning but stressed the need for further infrastructure improvements such as the Weardale railway line and West Auckland bypass. Asked whether future rounds of transport funding would be available before the next general election.
Acknowledged Sam Rushworth's efforts in his constituency and welcomed the historic level of funding announced today. Confirmed that further details on additional transport infrastructure spending will be provided in the upcoming spending review.
Jonathan Davies
Lab
Mid Derbyshire
Welcomed £2 billion investment for Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, highlighting historical underfunding of public transport in the region. Raised concerns about the midland main line electrification project which was not a question for today but emphasised its importance to people in Derbyshire.
Acknowledged Jonathan Davies' lobbying efforts and welcomed the historic level of funding announced. Reaffirmed that this investment is about more than just transport infrastructure, including communities, livelihoods, and opportunities for residents. Encouraged continued collaboration with the Mayor of the East Midlands to realise these improvements.
Jayne Kirkham
Lab/Co-op
Truro and Falmouth
Welcomed transport investment that spreads wealth across city regions but noted difficulties in securing public transport to Cornwall's airport or hospital. Campaigning for a freight rail link for Falmouth, she sought assurances that future funding would extend beyond city regions to benefit places like Cornwall with strong growth plans.
Acknowledged Jayne Kirkham’s advocacy for Cornwall and its opportunities. Highlighted the Labour Government's commitment to investing in all parts of the country, including areas essential for renewable energy projects, mining, and other aspects of the industrial strategy.
Government Response
The Minister outlined significant funding allocations towards regional growth, including £15.6 billion for intra-city transport connectivity across nine city regions in England until 2032. The investment aims to enhance local economies and provide better job opportunities through improved public transport systems. Reiterates commitment to city regions, confirms £1.5 billion for South Yorkshire and discusses future announcements at spending review. Provided reassurances regarding regional growth, emphasising investment in Scotland despite focus being on England. Announced largest real terms increase in funding since devolution and highlighted specific investments like Middlesbrough station improvements and east Birmingham tram project. Explains that funding is tilted towards north and midlands after years of imbalance. Confirms work will begin on projects announced today in 2028, with first services available from the mid-2030s. Acknowledges concerns raised by DUP member about border post project but emphasises record investment in Northern Ireland. Encourages positive campaigning for infrastructure needs and confirms further announcements regarding energy infrastructure, industrial policy, skills, housing, and public services. Emphasised the devolved nature of the funding pot, highlighting that regional mayors will decide how to spend it. Reaffirmed commitment to supporting combined authorities and unlocking opportunities for broader spending decisions on intercity transport, road investments, new house building, and industrial policy spending. Promised further details at the upcoming spending review. Minister Darren Jones emphasised government commitments to investing in every region and nation of the UK. He highlighted specific projects such as £2 billion for transport infrastructure in the east midlands, £1.8 billion for the North East combined authority region, and significant funding for the west midlands. The Minister also acknowledged ongoing discussions about future funding allocations and committed to supporting regional growth through additional investments. Reiterates government’s commitment to supporting all communities including non-mayoral areas through increased funding and maintenance of services. Acknowledges the need for governance mechanisms and checks in place to ensure funds are effectively used.
Shadow Response
Richard Fuller
Shadow Response
The shadow minister questioned the originality of Labour's regional growth strategy, suggesting it is a replica of previous Conservative policies aimed at levelling up across regions. He criticised the lack of new initiatives and emphasised that Labour's promises resemble past failures.
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