Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

Trans-Pennine Railway

30 June 2021 · 2 other contributors · 3,808 words

Opened by Judith Cummins Lab Bradford South

Responding minister: Robbie Moore

EconomyTransportLocal Government

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Judith Cummins raised concerns about trans-pennine railway in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • Concerns raised about Government plans to dilute Northern Powerhouse Rail and bypass Bradford
  • Specific asks include requesting details on NPR stops from the Minister
  • Minister welcomed contributions and acknowledged ongoing evaluation of options under NPR

Key requests to Government

I ask the Minister to provide Parliament today with details on Northern Powerhouse Rail stops that the Prime Minister refused to give a journalist. The Government must either deliver fully on NPR or not at all.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Judith Cummins Lab Bradford South

I am concerned that the Government plans to short-change the north by cutting back on Northern Powerhouse Rail and bypassing Bradford altogether. Documents reveal that the Government is preparing a diluted version of NPR under the guise of the trans-Pennine route upgrade. The north has endured decades of under-investment, and the potential for economic growth is unparalleled with £343 billion in economic output from eight UK top research institutions and 27 universities.

Other contributors (2)
  • Andrew Stephenson Con Pendle

    Investing in rail across the north of England is vital, with £15 million for new Leeds stations and £317 million for the trans-Pennine route upgrade to improve reliability and capacity. The Government remain committed to the Northern Powerhouse Rail programme despite recent media speculation about funding reallocation.

  • Kevin Hollinrake Con Thirsk and Malton

    He acknowledged the importance of the debate led by Judith Cummins, expressing reassurance about the commitment to Northern Powerhouse Rail despite reports suggesting a potential downgrade. He highlighted the economic benefits of connecting northern cities through this railway project, emphasizing the agglomeration effect and its potential to attract private sector investment in areas like Bradford. Asked the Minister for a more specific timeline on when the integrated railway plan will be published, expressing eagerness to see it.

Government Response

Robbie Moore

Welcomed contributions from neighbouring constituencies, highlighting the Government's commitment to Northern Powerhouse Rail. Stressed the importance of Bradford as a vibrant city contributing to northern economic development. Acknowledged ongoing evaluation of options under NPR and noted the Prime Minister's earlier statement on investment in railways in the North. Assured that the integrated rail plan will be published soon to reflect decisions made, considering evidence from various sources. Emphasised the Government's focus on growing economies and levelling up northern regions through a holistic approach.

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