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Transport Connectivity: Midlands and North Wales
22 January 2026
Lead MP
Wendy Morton
Aldridge-Brownhills
Con
Responding Minister
Simon Lightwood
Tags
Transport
Word Count: 10741
Other Contributors: 9
At a Glance
Wendy Morton raised concerns about transport connectivity: midlands and north wales in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The Government should provide clarity on funding for the Midlands Rail Hub project and deliver youth bus fare schemes to improve connectivity.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Connectivity determines economic opportunity, social mobility, and quality of life. Constituents face high bus fares, lack of rail infrastructure, and unreliable road services. Buses are the only form of public transport in many areas.
Adam Jogee
Lab
Newcastle-under-Lyme
Stressing the need for both political will and cooperation from private companies to improve transport services.
Amanda Hack
Lab
North West Leicestershire
Discussed the poor level of bus connectivity in North West Leicestershire due to cuts in services. Highlighted the disparity in transport spending per head between regions, noting that the east midlands received £10.8 billion less funding than it would have at an average allocation. Inquired about the distribution of funding to areas outside the East Midlands mayoralty and raised concerns about bus services in her constituency.
Derby North
Highlighting issues with bus routes in Derbyshire, noting a 60% loss of routes over 15 years. Asked how local authorities like Reform-led Derbyshire county council can ensure pothole repairs with increased funding.
Dave Robertson
Lab
Lichfield
Expressing agreement with concerns about rail infrastructure in the Midlands. The MP inquired about conversations with Walsall council regarding Chester Road, an accident blackspot where one of his constituents lost their life. He acknowledged the work of local campaigners on road safety. Emphasised the practicalities of travel between stations, noting that the distance and road conditions make it difficult for passengers to use alternative accessible stations.
Greg Smith
Con
Mid Buckinghamshire
Transport is crucial for economic growth in cities like Birmingham, where currently only around 20% of the city region can reach the city centre efficiently. Targeted youth fares and better integration of transport networks are needed to improve connectivity.
Josh Newbury
Con
Cannock Chase
Highlighted issues with bus services in his constituency and supported the Bus Services Act 2025, urging Staffordshire county council to take advantage of franchising opportunities.
Luke Taylor
LD
Sutton and Cheam
Transport links are essential to our economy, tourism, trade, and everyday life. Too many rural communities remain cut off from public transport due to poor train and bus services, impacting job opportunities in local economies.
Simon Lightwood
Con
North Warwickshire
Mayor Andy Street failed to deliver a fully developed design for Aldridge station despite having £1.05 billion allocated. The current mayor has invested £3.6 million sensibly and pragmatically to ensure value for taxpayers' money.
Wendy Morton
Con
Aldridge-Brownhills
Asked if the Government has fully committed all funds needed for the Midlands Rail Hub to deliver its full scope, highlighting concerns about previous underfunding and delays.
Government Response
Simon Lightwood
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport
Government Response
The Government is moving towards an integrated, people-focused transport system with a £15.6 billion investment in the West Midlands combined authority, complemented by £5.7 billion through the city region sustainable transport settlement. The Minister also mentions exciting progress on Mayor Richard Parker’s plans and the consolidated transport fund delivering over £1.3 billion across the west midlands by 2029-30 to strengthen links between towns, cities, and rural areas. Discussed future rail investments, including midlands rail hub commitments, addressing HS2 challenges, and providing financial support for Wales’s rail enhancements. Highlighted the Bus Services Act benefits and increased road maintenance funding for local councils with conditions to improve accountability and effectiveness in usage.
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Assessment & feedback
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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.