Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Rail Services

Thursday 8 June 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

  • Chris Stephens asked about recent discussions between the Secretary of State and Chancellor on rail service improvements, noting Treasury policies may hinder progress.
  • The Minister stated that rail services discussions include significant investment projects like High Speed 2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail.
  • Martin Vickers asked about improving practices for ensuring passengers have valid tickets, to which the Minister responded with increased fines and a willingness to cooperate on the issue.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Chris Stephens SNP
Transport
Context

MP inquired about the progress of rail service improvements after reports suggested delays and budget cuts.

Question

What recent discussions has the Secretary of State had with the Chancellor on delivering rail service improvements, given that Great British Railways is reportedly stagnant due to Treasury policies?

Answer from Huw Merriman

The Secretary of State and Chancellor regularly meet to discuss rail services, delivering unprecedented investment in rail infrastructure including High Speed 2, Northern Powerhouse Rail and East West Rail. Great British Railways is being put forward as endorsed by the Treasury.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific actions or timelines regarding Great British Railways not addressed

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Q2 Chris Stephens SNP
Economy Transport
Context

MP questioned the government's commitment to rail projects, citing issues with HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail.

Question

Does the Minister agree that his colleagues in the Treasury are a threat to rail network reforms due to reported cuts and delays in projects like HS2?

Answer from Huw Merriman

The Minister does not agree. The Secretary of State was clear about Great British Railways, and it is being put forward with support from all parts of Government. Weekly discussions are held to transition the project to Great British Railways.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific actions or timelines regarding concerns raised not addressed

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Q3 Martin Vickers Con Brigg and Immingham
Transport
Context

MP highlighted an incident of lax ticket inspection on a rail journey.

Question

Rail companies should ensure passengers have valid tickets, as exemplified by an instance where no one checked tickets during the MP's travel. Does the Chancellor having more funds help improve such practices?

Answer from Huw Merriman

The fine for not using valid tickets has increased to £100, reduced to £50 if paid on time. The Minister is determined to do more on this front, encouraging cooperation with the MP to improve ticket inspection practices.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific actions or timelines regarding improvements not addressed

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