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PARLIAMENTARY DEBATE
Transport Infrastructure: Scotland - 19 October 2017 (Commons/Commons Chamber)

Debate Detail

Contributions from Sir John Hayes, are highlighted with a yellow border.
Con
Luke Graham
Ochil and South Perthshire
17. What plans he has to develop transport infrastructure in Scotland.
  10:20:42
Mr John Hayes
The Minister for Transport Legislation and Maritime
I am up again—and up for it, by the way.

As my hon. Friend knows, transport powers are devolved in Scotland. Nevertheless, investments are being made by the UK Government in rail and road on both sides of the border help to bind our kingdom together—united forever.
  10:21:11
Luke Graham
I thank my right hon. Friend, but what specific plans does he have to improve north-south rail connections other than High Speed 2, including the east coast main line, to ensure we truly are a connected kingdom?
  10:21:32
Mr Hayes
For such a specific question, a specific answer is required. Investments in the east coast and west coast franchises will bring great benefits to the people of Scotland. An additional £2.7 billion has been given to the intercity express programme, providing 500 new carriages, increasing the number of seats by 20% and reducing journey times between many of the great cities of our united kingdom.
SNP
  10:21:48
Martyn Day
Linlithgow and East Falkirk
The port of Grangemouth in my constituency handles 80% of Scotland’s container traffic. Will the Minister advise us what discussions he has had with his Scottish counterpart regarding any post-Brexit delays at borders and traffic chaos or road jams in the Grangemouth area?
Mr Hayes
I was in discussion with my Scottish counterpart just this week—not on that subject, but we do communicate regularly. The next time I have the opportunity to speak to that gentleman, I will certainly raise the matter that the hon. Gentleman has raised in the Chamber today.

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