Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Heritage Steam Railways

Thursday 7 July 2022 · 2 questions

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Liz Saville-Roberts inquired about the challenges facing heritage railways in securing suitable coal supplies due to the Ukraine crisis.
  • The Minister acknowledged the complexity of the issue and noted that some challenges may fall outside the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport's jurisdiction.
  • The Government recognizes the significance of heritage steam railways in promoting industrial heritage and supporting tourism, and maintains regular communication with the industry.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Liz Saville-Roberts PC Dwyfor Meirionnydd
Ukraine Climate
Context

The MP has seven heritage railways in her constituency that rely on coal for operation. The sector is facing a supply crisis due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and needs support to transition towards net zero goals.

Question

I am lucky to have seven heritage railways in Dwyfor Meirionnydd, and steam engines were designed to be run on coal. Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, they face a crisis in the supply of suitable coal. The sector is working to develop alternatives to coal, as required by the net zero agenda, but it needs help. Will the Minister commit to supporting heritage steam to ensure the survival of our industrial heritage?

Answer from Nigel Huddleston

I have had several conversations with the right hon. Lady on this topic, as I have with colleagues from across the House, and I understand the complexities and challenges. She will be aware that some of the issues that need to be resolved may be outside DCMS's portfolio. Ultimately, the sourcing of fuel supplies is a commercial arrangement. However, I will be happy to continue to work with her and facilitate further conversations across Government.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Commitment to specific support for heritage steam railways

How: Issues Are Outside Dcms'S Portfolio, Sourcing Of Fuel Supplies Is A Commercial Arrangement

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Q2 Liz Saville-Roberts PC Dwyfor Meirionnydd
Culture, Media & Sport
Context

The MP is concerned about the sustainability and future viability of heritage steam railways in her constituency.

Question

What recent assessment she has made of the sustainability and future of heritage steam railways?

Answer from Nigel Huddleston

The Government absolutely appreciate the unique importance of heritage steam railways in this country in promoting our industrial heritage and supporting tourism. We are in regular communication with the industry.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific assessment or plan for sustainability

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