Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Rolling Stock Manufacturing: North-east England

Thursday 2 March 2023 · 3 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 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Sharon Hodgson asked about the importance of Hitachi Rail for north-east manufacturing and job support, seeking clarity on the short-term rolling stock pipeline.
  • The Minister acknowledged the significance of rolling stock manufacturing, noting over 10.6 billion in orders since 2010 and promised a written response on short-term pipeline details.
  • Louise Haigh and Sharon Hodgson inquired about potential plans to reduce HS2's eastern leg, to which the Minister affirmed the government's commitment to delivering HS2 despite cost pressures.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Sharon Hodgson Lab Washington and Gateshead South
Economy Transport
Context

The north-east's Hitachi Rail is a key manufacturer of rolling stock, supporting hundreds of jobs in Newton Aycliffe with orders from various UK train operators.

Question

Hitachi Rail is an anchor for north-east manufacturing expertise and innovation, supporting jobs at the Newton Aycliffe site and in wider supply chains. However, will the Minister provide urgent clarity on the short-term rolling stock pipeline to ensure this exemplar of north-east manufacturing continues to support regional economic growth?

Answer from Huw Merriman

The Government recognises the importance of rolling stock manufacturing for national and local economies. Over 5,300 vehicles have been assembled in UK facilities since 2010, representing £10.6 billion in orders. The Minister will provide a written response to the hon. Member regarding short-term pipeline clarity.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific ask for immediate pipeline details was addressed with an offer of writing a letter instead

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q2 Sharon Hodgson Lab Washington and Gateshead South
Transport
Context

Hitachi Rail's Newton Aycliffe site employs skilled workers delivering world-class manufacturing excellence. Concerns exist about HS2 uncertainties impacting the plant.

Question

The Minister categorically denies his Department is working on any plans to slash HS2's eastern leg, leaving Yorkshire and the north-east cut off by removing high-speed platforms at Euston?

Answer from Huw Merriman

The Government remains committed to delivering HS2 trains from London to Manchester and further east, despite cost pressures requiring focus on costs. The Secretary of State and the Department are dedicated to delivering HS2's benefits for the country.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not directly deny or confirm specific plans regarding the eastern leg's reduction

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q3 Louise Haigh Lab Sheffield Heeley
Transport
Context

The Hitachi Rail facility in Newton Aycliffe employs highly skilled workers manufacturing world-class rolling stock. Uncertainty about HS2's eastern leg threatens job security and investment.

Question

Will the Minister categorically deny that his Department is working on any plans to slash what remains of HS2's eastern leg, leaving Yorkshire and the north-east cut off by removing high-speed platforms at Euston?

Answer from Huw Merriman

The Government is committed to delivering HS2 trains from London to Manchester and further east, addressing cost pressures. The Department remains dedicated to delivering HS2 for national benefits.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not categorically deny or confirm any specific reduction plans in the eastern leg

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)