← Back to Westminster Hall Debates
Trans-Pennine Railway
30 June 2021
Lead MP
Judith Cummins
Bradford South
Lab
Responding Minister
Robbie Moore
Tags
EconomyTransport
Word Count: 3808
Other Contributors: 2
At a Glance
Judith Cummins raised concerns about trans-pennine railway in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
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:
Lead Contributor
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.
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
Government Response
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.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.