HANSARDCommons16 Dec 20214 contributions

East-west Rail Connections: North England

Kevin Hollinrake (Thirsk and Malton) (Con)
ConservativeThirsk and Malton
18. What steps he is taking to help improve east-west rail connections in the north of England.
The Minister of State, Department for Transport (Andrew Stephenson)
ConservativePendle
The Northern Powerhouse Rail project will deliver real benefits for passengers and communities, enhancing journeys and levelling up for a growing population.
Kevin Hollinrake
ConservativeThirsk and Malton
I thank my hon. Friend for that answer. The integrated rail plan contains many good things, but a significant improvement would be an improved direct connection between Bradford and Manchester. There are ways to do it without significantly increasing the overall £96 billion budget. Will my hon. Friend meet me to discuss the opportunities?
Andrew Stephenson
ConservativePendle
My hon. Friend is a brilliant champion for his constituents, his region and the whole north of England. The integrated rail plan was designed to deliver improvements to Bradford sooner, but I am of course happy to meet him to discuss possible future investment.