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Scunthorpe Station Ticket Office
20 July 2023
Lead MP
Holly Mumby-Croft
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
EmploymentWomen & Equalities
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Holly Mumby-Croft raised concerns about scunthorpe station ticket office 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 MP raised concerns about the proposed closure of the ticket office at Scunthorpe train station and reduction in staffing hours. She noted that currently, the station is staffed from 5:15 am to 8:15 pm on weekdays and 8:30 am to 8:30 pm on Sundays, but these will be reduced to 7 am to 2 pm and 9 am to 4 pm respectively. She highlighted issues for elderly residents and disabled individuals who may struggle with digital ticket machines and reduced access to cash payments. The MP also emphasised safety concerns regarding unsupervised waiting rooms and the impact on customer service, noting that nearly 32,000 tickets were sold at Scunthorpe station last year. She called for the Government's intervention to ensure ticket offices remain open.
Huw Merriman
Con
Bexhill and Battle
Congratulated Holly Mumby-Croft on securing the debate, noting that TransPennine trains propose closing all ticket office windows at Scunthorpe station. He highlighted the industry shift towards digital ticket purchases but acknowledged concerns for elderly and disabled passengers.
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the debate on the proposed closure of Scunthorpe train station's ticket office. He explained that this is part of an industry-led process under the ticketing and settlement agreement, where TransPennine trains must consult with passenger groups to ensure accessibility requirements are met. The Minister noted that nearly 70 ticket offices will remain open, including specific examples like Manchester Piccadilly, Victoria and Oxford Road stations. He emphasised that staff will still be available to assist passengers using ticket machines or offering additional support as needed. The Minister reiterated the consultation process and the appeals mechanism for any unsatisfactory changes proposed by train operators.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.