Transport Connectivity North of England Cities 2024-03-21
2024-03-21
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from the need to improve direct connections between cities such as Liverpool and Preston, addressing historical issues like the removal of buffers at Ormskirk that prevent direct train services. It also questions the closure of Midge Hall station.
To build our northern powerhouse, direct connections between cities are important. Does the Secretary agree to remove buffers at Ormskirk preventing direct trains and stop nonsense at Midge Hall station? Such moves would enhance connectivity using battery technology.
Local authorities are best placed to promote schemes; £2.5 billion from the local transport fund will be available for them. Encourages work with stakeholders such as Lancashire County Council.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address removal of buffers or reopening Midge Hall station
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
Constituents are excited by the news of the local transport fund but have been told most money will not come until the end of the decade, raising concerns about raised expectations.
When will we have timelines for the delivery of the £168 million funding? I do not want my constituents to have their expectations raised unreasonably.
The money will come over a seven-year period; guidance for local authorities on how to use it will be published soon. Encourages involvement of MPs in developing schemes.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The backlog of local road repairs has increased by 16% this year alone to £16.3 billion, raising concerns about the effectiveness of Network North's announcement spread over 11 years.
With a 16% increase in backlog and only one-third of the annual increase covered by Network North's funding, how will the Secretary address road repairs? Will he apologise for past damage caused?
£8.3 billion from HS2 cancellation available over 11 years; first tranche of money available this and next financial year. Labour has not committed to spending the £8.3 billion.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address apology or road repair issues directly
Changed Subject To Labour'S Stance On Hs2
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The need for direct connections between cities such as Liverpool and Preston is highlighted, questioning the removal of administrative barriers to direct train services like buffers at Ormskirk.
Direct connections between cities are vital. Does the Secretary agree that removing buffers at Ormskirk preventing direct trains is a good idea? Such services would be enhanced by battery technology.
Local authorities are best placed; £2.5 billion from local transport fund will be available for them; encourages work with stakeholders such as Lancashire County Council.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address removal of buffers or battery technology
Response accuracy