Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The MP is concerned about the steps being taken to improve rail services, particularly in his constituency.
What steps he is taking to improve rail services. The Secretary of State's Bradshaw address earlier this year includes ambitions for a customer-focused, commercially led rail industry and the creation of Great British Railways. He also noted record investment in infrastructure, including £165 million for the south-west rail resilience programme at Dawlish.
Earlier this year, I set out my vision to modernise the railway industry as part of my Bradshaw address. This includes ambitions for a customer-focused, commercially led rail industry and the creation of Great British Railways as its new guiding mind. We continue to invest record sums in improving infrastructure and, just last week, I was pleased to officially open the latest phase of the south-west rail resilience programme at Dawlish, part of a £165 million investment to date.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
A local charity, Devon in Sight, has raised concerns about proposed railway ticket office closures. The email to supporters includes a letter detailing how objections can be made.
The Secretary of State is right that I welcome the programme. This week, Devon in Sight sent an email titled “Proposed closures to Railway Ticket Offices.” Why does he suppose that a charity for blind people should presume its supporters would want to object?
The rail Minister, my hon. Friend the Member for Bexhill and Battle (Huw Merriman), set out the purpose of the rail companies' proposals very well. The rail companies are consulting on the proposals, which recognise that most passengers purchase tickets online or from a ticket machine, rather than near a ticket office. This aims to get staff out into stations to support all passengers, including those who need assistance.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The specific reason why Devon in Sight assumes its supporters would want to object is not addressed.
Response accuracy