Union Connectivity 2022-06-29
2022-06-29
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Questions & Answers
Q1
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Discussions on improving Union connectivity between Scotland and England.
What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on improving Union connectivity?
I regularly discuss important issues on improving Union connectivity with ministerial colleagues. Earlier this year, for example, I co-chaired a roundtable discussion with Transport Ministers and Scottish stakeholders.
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Q2
Partial Answer
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The Union connectivity review suggests ways to reform public service obligations for regional flights.
Does the Minister agree that restoring commercial passenger flights between Blackpool airport and locations in Scotland would boost economic growth and help to create jobs and investment in both locations?
The Government recognise the importance of maintaining a thriving and competitive aviation sector in the UK. The Minister will continue to consider whether there are further opportunities to utilise public service obligations to meet Union connectivity objectives.
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Q3
Partial Answer
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The Union connectivity review recommended the UK Government work with the Scottish Government on an assessment of the east coast transport corridor.
Can my hon. Friend update the House on progress in bringing forward that recommendation?
The Government are grateful to Sir Peter Hendy for his work and are considering his recommendations carefully. The Prime Minister has welcomed, and intends to accept, the proposal for the creation of UKNET, a strategic transport network spanning the entire United Kingdom.
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Q4
Partial Answer
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Concerns about the Scottish Government's lack of support for investment in rail and road infrastructure.
Connectivity between Scotland and England matters, especially for the area that I represent in Cumbria, and south-west Scotland. Does the Minister share my concerns that the Scottish Government are not helping to deliver the investment?
The Minister is keen to see the feasibility study work commence on extending the Borders rail line. The Minister has recently met with Wendy Morton to progress that project.
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Q5
Partial Answer
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Belfast harbour has reported a significant increase in turnover and profits, prompting questions about Union connectivity with the European Union.
Why will the Secretary of State's office not campaign for Union connectivity with the greatest booster of our economy, the European Union?
The Government are focusing on upgrading the A75 and the A77. The Minister has been keen to meet the Scottish Transport Minister, but they have refused to do so.
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Q6
Partial Answer
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The decision to leave the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service satellite programme has affected air services reliability.
Is it not time to admit as much, rejoin EGNOS, and improve air services in the highlands and islands?
The Minister discussed the EGNOS issue with Robert Courts. Loganair has written to the Secretary of State for Transport, pointing out additional evidence. The Minister would be happy to meet him further.
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Q7
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Promises of a bridge to Northern Ireland and HS2 running to Scotland on day one have not been fulfilled.
Is it not the case that this UK Government are running a scorched-earth policy on Union connectivity and the Union overall?
Scotland will be connected to HS2 from day one, delivering enormous capacity and journey time improvements. Sir Peter Hendy's review found that the Golborne link was not optimal but better alternatives are being explored.
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