Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

UK Transport Connections

Wednesday 2 December 2020 · 4 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • The Minister and Secretary of State have regular discussions with ministerial colleagues on improving transport connections, especially for Northern Ireland.
  • The Union connectivity review is underway to consider how connectivity can support economic growth across the UK.
  • Discussions with the Treasury are ongoing regarding matters concerning air connectivity and air passenger duty.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Jane Stevenson
Transport Northern Ireland
Context

Discussions about improving transport links are prompted by a need for better connectivity, especially in Northern Ireland.

Question

What discussions has the Minister had with Cabinet colleagues on improving transport connections within the UK? He highlights the importance of these connections, particularly for Northern Ireland due to its unique geography. The independent Union connectivity review is mentioned as a means to consider how connectivity can support economic growth across the UK.

Answer from Robin Walker

The Secretary of State and I have regular conversations with ministerial colleagues regarding transport connections, particularly for Northern Ireland. The Union connectivity review is underway to consider how connectivity can support economic growth across the UK. We have met Sir Peter Hendy and anticipate his recommendations in the summer.

Answered
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Q2 John Lamont Con Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk
Transport Scotland
Context

The question arises from concerns that Scotland's transport links may be compromised due to the Scottish Government's reluctance to engage in the Union connectivity review.

Question

Does the Minister agree that good transport links between all parts of the United Kingdom are vital, and it is therefore extremely disappointing that the Scottish Government are refusing to engage with the Union connectivity review, thereby depriving constituents of good transport links in Scotland and better links with other UK parts?

Answer from Robin Walker

I wholeheartedly agree. Every part of the United Kingdom can benefit from investment in shared infrastructure and connectivity, and reluctance to engage risks Scotland missing out on benefits.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Details on concrete actions or commitments related to engaging the Scottish Government were not provided.

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Q3 Jane Stevenson
Transport Northern Ireland
Context

The query stems from personal anecdotes highlighting the importance of travel connections for communities with strong ties to Northern Ireland across Great Britain, including Scotland.

Question

Does the Minister agree that excellent transport links to Northern Ireland are crucial for trade, tourism, the Union, and family reunions, especially given many communities' deep connections to Northern Ireland? Will he make this case clear to Sir Peter Hendy as part of his review?

Answer from Robin Walker

My hon. Friend makes an excellent point about the importance of excellent transport links across the Irish Sea, recognising these connections are vital for trade, tourism, the Union, and family reunions. The review will make recommendations on improving connectivity across the UK.

Partly answered

Not addressed: No specific timeline or commitment was given regarding advocating for improved transport links to Northern Ireland in the review.

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Q4 Sammy Wilson DUP East Antrim
Economy Transport Northern Ireland
Context

Concerns are raised about the unprofitability of airlines operating to and from Northern Ireland due to covid restrictions, affecting winter connectivity.

Question

Can the Secretary of State provide assurance that he will discuss with the Treasury reduction or suspension of air passenger duty for a limited period and what help can be given to open new routes between Northern Ireland and European business centres?

Answer from Robin Walker

There have been discussions with the Department for Transport and Treasury on matters concerning air connectivity. The Treasury is reviewing the issue of air passenger duty.

Partly answered

Not addressed: No specific timeline or commitment was given regarding concrete actions to address air connectivity issues.

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