Transport Questions House of Commons

Good morning and welcome to BBC Parliament's live coverage of the

Parliament at the House of Commons. There will be questions on

forthcoming Parliamentary Business. After that, a statement about the

BBC's Royal Charter, by the Culture Secretary, Karen Bradley, follows

the announcement by the care of the BBC Trust to step down early and not

alie to head the corporation's new governing body. After that a

statement by the business and the Energy Secretary, Greg Clarke,

concerning the ?18 billion pound nuclear power. .Plant at Hinkley

Point. And followed by domestic abuse victims in the family courts

and then quantitative easing, the money supply by the Central Bank

with regards to the boosting in the economy.

In a moment, it will be questions to the. . The.Secretary, Chris Grayling

and his team. On the front page of today's order

paper it is noted that on the 15th of September, 1916, Lieutenant

Colonel, the honourable Guy Victor Bearing, a 1st Battalion of the

Coldstream Guards, was killed in action during the Battle of the

Somme in France. Lieutenant Colonel Charles William Reginald Duncan, of

the royal rifle corp, a member of Thirsk and Malton, was killed in

action during the Battle of the Somme, France. On the 25th of

September, 1916 Lieutenant Gerald Arbuthnott of the 1st Battalion the

Grenadier Guards was killed in action during the Battle of the

Somme, France, we remember them today.

Order. Order. Dame Rosie Winterton. I beg to move Mr Speaker to issue to

the Clerk of the Crown to make a new member to serve in the Parliament

for the constituency of Backley and Spokesmen.

The question is, as I issue the Warren to the clerk of the Crown to

make out a writ for the electing of a member to serve in this present

Parliament for the constituency of Batley Spen in the room of Helen

Joanne Cox, deceased. Say Aye. On the contrary no, the

ayes have it. Order. Order. Mr Gavin Williamson.

I beg to move that Mr Speaker issue his warrant to the clerk of the

crown to make out a new writ for the electing of a member to serve in the

present Parliament of the questions of Whitney in the room of the Right

Honourable David William Donald Cameron, who since his election for

the county questions has been appointed to the office of steward

and bailiff of Her Majesty's manor of Northstead in the county of York.

I issue the warrant to the clerk of the crown to make out a writ for the

electing of a member to serve in this present Parliament of Witney in

the room of the Right Honourable David William Donald Cameron who

since his election has been appointed to the office of steward

and bailiff of Her Majesty's manor of Northstead in the county of York.

Say aye... Aye. The ayes have it.

Order. Questions to the Secretary of State for transport, Victoria

Atkins. Question number one please, Mr

Speaker. Thank you. Mrr John Ames.

Mr Speaker, the assessment of the impact, the economy of a routine hub

in transport provisions, a frame work for assessing schools to

include the impact on jobs, growth and regeneration. May I welcome the

minister to his place to say how pleased I am that the department has

the benefit of his experience and which had tomorrow. I am not just

saying that as I would like his help with a road, please! Everyday this

summer my constituents, tourists and I had to wait up to 45 minutes to

pass through the traffic lights at the bullring in Horncastle where the

busy A 153, crosses the A 158. The single carriageway roads cannot cope

with the traffic between the city of Lincoln, the mar Cabinet town of

Louth and the East Coast. Will he meet me and the local councillors to

discuss what can be done to get rid of bottlenecks to help the local

residents and businesses and encourage more tourism to the

wonderful Lincolnshire coast? The honourable lady is an art I can late

campaigner in our constituent's interest. Knowing that all counties

of our great country are dear to my heart but none more so than my own

county of Lincolnshire. I am familiar with this part of the

county. I understand the pressure on the roads. I would be happy to meet

with the councillors and discuss this, and go further. That is not

good enough. I will hold a round table meeting of the concerned

parties in my department and ask to look at specifically what she says.

If I may say so, her words were most welcome, she could have added for

future reference, dexterity, determination, and in the light of

recent events, durability! Mr Speaker will the minister give a

firm commitment for high-speed two to go ahead with a clear timetable?

Will he accelerate work in trans-Pennine links from Liverpool

to Hull so that the economy can be supported and assist in the

rebalancing of the economy across the UK? Well, the honourable lady

and I were together this week at a meeting to discuss a range of issues

in the light of the IPPR report, including the significance of that

trans-Pennine connection. It is important that we see all of our

transport needs, not just in terms of north/south links but east/west

links. I know many members as we both do

will recognise that. I am happy to look at the options. She will know

that we are considering a range of ways of making the links real. She

in her role of the select chairman will want to test me further when

she calls me before her. Will my right honourable friend have

regard to the reports from the great eastern and west Anglian taskforces

chaired by two of his colleagues, about the contribution that they can

make to the future prosperity of the Anglian region, so that there can be

a reliable rail structure on which the new trains that are to come can

run more efficiently? As you know, I have a deep regard for the past and

my recent past reminds me that the right honourable gentlemen tested me

on these matters in my last incarnation in the Department of

Transport when making similar arguments about the importance of

the links. I look forward to studying that report. When I do so I

am happy to ask discussions with him on the content. No-one can argue he

as not made his case powerfully and repeatedly.

I hope he remembers how lucky he is to have further conversations with

the Minister of State. Not all are in that category.

Infrastructure is vital for economic growth. It is unfortunate no the

highwayways agency has announced closure of the A 34. This stretch of

road is the main access route to the Freeport Shopping Centre. Works are

required. It is due to start next week until December 23rd at the

Christmas shopping centre. Will the minister work with the Highways

agency to see the error of their ways? I might make a general point.

The first day I was in this particular job, I met the Highways

England as they are now called and was clear that what they must do

better is to give proper notice of plans that they have to communicate

with all of the interested parties including the members of this House

and to be clear about the length of time that particular decisions that

they make and implications take. Obviously the case in point. I was

not aware of this but I will meet with Highways England this day and

raise that issue. I will have a conversation with the honourable

lady tomorrow. My right honourable friend is

dexterous, determined and durable, as well as extremely distinguished.

The A 34 is one of the most important roads for our economy from

the south to the Midlands. It is becoming dangerous with two recent

rash crashes and fatalities. I would like him to hold a round table with

me and Oxfordshire MPs to discuss safety and the freerunning of the A

34? My table grows ever more round! I am none the worse for it, by the

way. I am familiar with that road. He will know it is a scheme which

has had a number of suggestions made for its improvement. It is important

that the House understands that there are always demands on

different roads and different ideas about how the demands are met. The

process that we are engaged in, is while we study those things

carefully and the consultation that the honourable gentleman recommends.

I am delighted to speak to him about any matter in this House including

the one he raised today. The government talks about

rebalancing the economy and it is interesting what he said about

east-west links. Can we extend the 65 all the way to Scotch

Corner? There are millions of people in the north-east leading connecting

directly to millions of people, and this will be a vital infrastructure

link that would rebalance that economy. Again, the honourable

gentleman is known for making that case, and the case of the links that

would be sufficient to give a further boost to his economy. There

have been scurrilous suggestions that the Northern Powerhouse has

faltered in some way. Let me tell you this. The Northern Powerhouse

has not only -- is not only alive and well, it will thrive under this

government, and that will include the kind of infrastructure

investment is necessary not only to provide transport links but to boost

economic growth, build skills and spread opportunity. We are

government with big ideas that puts into action for the benefit of our

people. Following the electrification,

Network Rail are working towards their final design for the programme

as set out in the Henley review last year. Worked to increase capacity on

this route has started. -- has already started. The East Midlands

region has had the lowest level of rail spending per head in everyone

of the last six years. We have discovered that the pausing of the

mainline wasted almost ?40 million and cost countless jobs in the

supply chain. Now there are rumours it could be cancelled or deferred

again. Will he take this opportunity to confirm that the line will be

electrified all the way to Nottingham and Sheffield by 20 23?

And will he commit to real action to ensure that there are no further

delays or broken promises? I congratulate her on still carrying

out her former brief, who knows when she might return to her front bench

to continue in that role. The important point she made about the

East line to the East Midlands, and in my view the supply chain in the

East Midlands does not just depend on this one project. The investment

in bombarding a in trains from East Anglia is one way of safeguarding

this. -- Bombardier. We have already completed ten kilometres of new

line. Nearly nine kilometres of an existing line have been improved as

well. Ten kilometres of new earthworks. New viaducts, so the

work is ongoing on the line, and we are looking to improve capacity as

well. I'm delighted to hear the Northern Powerhouse is alive and

well, and would he agree that if it is to have real effect it is

connectivity, not just between connectivity, not just between

cities, but also between the times the North is made? I would like to

thank ministers for the initial investment in the bypass, but would

he also look at the reopening of Midwich railway station? I was born

and bred in a ten close to Midwich. I am well aware in my 40 years of

the importance it has had, and I look forward to working with her to

progressing the business case for the station. Electrification was due

to be completed by 2020, that is also the date when all trains have

to comply with the new disability legislation. What is the government

going to do between 2020 and 2023, when the old trains on the line with

the slam doors do not comply with this legislation? Will the

government put in temporary rolling stock or change the legislation? He

is right to point out the commitments we have made. We need to

increase capacity, particularly at peak hours. So we are looking

carefully at how we can deliver on this. In the plans to re-energise

the electrification, would he ensure that the branch line running through

my constituency is added into that plan, as it was unaccountably missed

out of the original? I am not familiar with that particular branch

line, but I will look into it and write to the honourable gentleman.

With faster line speeds that electrification will bring, will he

look to reinstate the half hourly service north from catering that was

cut to an hourly service under the last Labour government? --

Kettering? There are always a number of opportunities that come around in

Rolling stock and on lines, so we will feed back into all

consultations as to how we best make use of the re-profiling of the line.

The safety of the public is our top priority. We are working closely

with the CAA industry to address the safe use of drones. We are

continuing to adapt and strengthen regulations as the use of them

evolves. The current framework balances rules on safety and strong

penalties for misuse,... I asked him what assessment he had made of the

effect on aviation safety. How real is this risk? I know he knows it was

discussed at the trade union Congress this week, but we need to

know what the risk is, and what steps the government is taking

before we end up with the inevitable ministerial statement about lessons

learned? He is right about the TUC discussing it yesterday, and they

are right to raise this. It is an emerging technology and the risk is

dynamic, we need to keep constant analysis and place about what it

poses. It is not just irresponsible use, it could be malevolent use. You

can imagine drones could be used by all kinds of agents to do all kinds

of things. So the assurance I give him is that I will make sure that my

department is continuing that analysis, making sure the regulatory

framework is fit for purpose having done that analysis, and I think the

best thing to do that is for me to come back to the House and give

regular reports on how it is going. The honourable gentleman always

takes a diligent interest in the affairs of this House, and he raised

an important issue which is one that we have to take extremely seriously.

My constituent tells me that drones are not only an issue or danger to

aircraft, but also it affects privacy, copyright law, and also is

a danger to people who might be visiting the castle in my

constituency, with the drone on people's heads. When will we see

tighter instructions and education about how to use drones?

Intellectual property rights. That was the phrase I was searching for

earlier. And you found it! Just to be clear, we do take drones very

seriously, and anyone who recklessly or negligently commits the drawn to

endanger any person or property can face a fine of up to ?5,000. Or two

years imprisonment. We're not taking matters lightly. But the point he

makes and a gentleman opposite, because this technology is evolving

is very important but we do important work to look at this scale

and type of danger we face, and in the framework can be fit for

purpose. To the department have any cooperation with the MoD in relation

to security and the threat that drones pose for the security of the

nation? Indeed, given that I have recently arrived -- arrived back

from the Home Office, where I was the Minister for security, that the

something the MOD and the Home Office took very seriously indeed.

So he can be absolutely sure that across government we are looking at

this matter because, as I said earlier, it is not just about

irresponsible use, it may be malevolent use. With your permission

I will answer this question together with question seven. The government

is committed to delivering the important infrastructure projects

that this country needs, including delivering a runway capacity in the

south-east on the timetable set by the Airports Commission. We are

currently undertaking further work, including assurance of the airport

commission's evidence, and a decision will be made public

shortly. The new Transport Secretary is a fierce advocate that exiting

the EU has done more than enough already to create economic havoc.

Perhaps he will use his new position to mitigate some of this damage by

putting an end to this third runway debacle, and if not well he

apologised to businesses and commuters in Scotland forbidding the

economic interests on -- for putting the economic interests on the line.

I would like to apologise that some of the things we said the economy

have proven not to be the case, but the economy continues to do well.

The government will always have a commitment to the people of Scotland

as part of one United Kingdom, and the position we seek to take on

runway capacity in the south-east, whatever it may be, will be a

decision that is also designed to benefit the whole United Kingdom by

improving connectivity to the world. When reminded of his words, no ifs,

no buts, no third runway, the previous Prime Minister said it

would be this summer, but it is October for a decision on Heathrow,

but the Prime Minister seems to be erasing all evidence of her

predecessor of this. It looks like it is going to be a free vote, can

he confirm or deny this? To my constituents, it looks protracted...

Order, shorter questions. She's going to have to wait for us to set

out our plans. This is an important decision for the nation, one would

need to get on with. We have seen a significant change in administration

across the summer. It is right and proper that the Prime Minister and I

are prepared to take the decision we need to take and we will make sure

we are suitably prepared. Will my right honourable friend agree that

if we want to keep London as the hub airport for western Europe, it is

crucial that we deal with the capacity problems that currently

affect Heathrow in particular? This saga has been going on for so long.

Can I ask my right honourable friend that he ensures that we do not have

any further delays in reaching a conclusion on the Davis

recommendations, and can I tell them that there is only one obvious

answer, which is Heathrow. As you know, there are differing opinions

across the House. It is right and proper that the government looks at

all three options recommended to us by the Davis commission in a

dispassionate way, assess the strengths and weakness of what is

offered, and takes the right decision in the interests of the

nation, which is what we will do. As Britain leads the European Union we

will have to develop more markets in Asia and the Far East, which means

more passenger traffic and more freight traffic. Is it not therefore

essential that riverboats plans for the freight hub at Manston Adelaide

to proceed to be successful, and we preserve Manston as a national

interest? -- hub at Manston are allowed to proceed. I can say to him

that this government would be perfectly supportive of proposals to

develop a freight hub, but it has to be a matter for the local community,

the owners, the local authority, and I hope the right decision will be

made in the interests of the nation. There will be 370,000 tonnes of

steel in Heathrow expansion, and Heathrow made a commitment to use UK

steel. What will the Secretary of State do to ensure that whatever the

decision on the infrastructure for airports' UK steel is used in that

expansion? I am an unashamed champion for the businesses of this

country and for what we do as a nation, giving them the best

opportunities. We are an outward facing nation and will always do

business with companies from around the world, but it is proper that we

should also be champion for those organisations that deliver in this

country. The steelmakers are one of those, and I am proud that railways

use almost entirely British steel, and I want to see it used on all

major infrastructure projects. While residents would agree that there is

a need for airport expansion, is he aware that -- does he agree with the

concern about the 3 million people living under the flight path at

Heathrow, the concern of living a cap on aircraft movements, and does

he agree that Heathrow cannot be trusted to not go for a fourth

runway and not have nightlights? I am aware how strongly people in

West London feel about this and around Gatwick, smaller numbers in

Heathrow. I know how passionate she feels about the issues. But I can

assure you as we reach this review on the Davis commission, that the

impact of noise, air quality and how the issues are dealt with, it will

be looked at whatever decision we reach.

Thank you Mr Speaker, as a veteran of 12 years, may I congratulate the

right honourable gentlemen for his appointment, I look forward to

discussions on transport in the months ahead. A decision on the

airport expansion is long overview and the need to demonstrate that UK

is open for business. Twice delayed, because of political bickering,

there are rumours that ministers are to be given a free vote. This is a a

is national, critical infrastructure situation, can he say the exact date

for the announcement and whatever the decision is will have the full

backing of the Cabinet. I am grateful for his words of

welcome. You will no Mr Speaker, he is perhaps underemployed by

comparison with my previous Shadow held in that Shadow Cabinet role.

But I am grateful for the kind words. I look forward to sparring

with him across the despatch box with somebody more experienced than

I am in the role that I hold. He will understand that this is a

decision that is very important in the strategic interests of our

nation. I am new to the job, as is the Prime Minister, we wanted to

ensure before we took the decision that we had done the work that is

necessary to be properly informed. I have done much in the summer to

ensure it is the case, to look at the proposals, the Prime Minister is

doing the same. We will reach a view shortly, bring that view to this

House and Mr Speaker it is right and proper that everyone in the House

will have the right and the ability to have their say about their views

on this important issue. Thank goodness it is question number

five, we are making slow enough progress as it is! I will answer

this question together with number eight: The Prime Minister will begin

the negotiation of Britain's future relations with the E #u6789 as to

when to trigger Article 50 and start the formal process of leaving the

European Union. As we move into the new world beyond our membership of

the European Union it is important we are an outward facing nation with

strong business ties and a decision on the runway is an important part

of that, important to get it right but we will move ahead with plans

and ensure that we have the right links for the future.

I am sure that the Secretary of State shares my enthusiasm that the

result of the the referendum gives vast opportunities to forge new

links around the world. The airport commission looked at this and the

economic expansion of upgrading Heathrow would be ?6 billion as

opposed to ?12.4 billion if Gatwick were expand panneded. It would

benefit buckinghamshire greatly. Will he commit to an integrated

transport strategy to benefit the people of buckinghamshire, unlike

HS2? I will assure the House that we will take this decision soon. It is

important to move ahead with the plans. I hear what she says about

Heathrow Airport. I have seen three very effective, well-crafted

proposals for Government and the House to consider. We will reach a

view about what recommendation we will seek to make.

The Prime Minister's claim that she wishes to govern in the interests of

the whole country, expansion of Heathrow Airport delivers over 8,000

jobs for Wales and contribute ?6 billion to the growth of our

economy. Does the Secretary of State agree that the expansion of Heathrow

is the only right answer for the economy of Wales? I hear what the

honourable gentlemen say, there are strong views on both sides of the

House and indeed all three sides of the argument in this. I note what he

says about the importance of proper air links for Wales. This Government

will always focus on the best way that we have at our disposal to help

Wales. We have to take a decision, though about the interests of the

collective United Kingdom which ons is better. That is the decision that

we will take. Now that the British people have

decided to leave the EU and free our country from interference that

regulation brought, this presents new opportunities for the Government

to support region that will connect tavity and will he look closely at

the options that Heathrow Airport brings? Whatever decision we take

about airport expansion, it is important that we have in mind the

need to ensure there is good connectivity around the United

Kingdom. That is a priority in our considerations.

Will the Secretary of State reassure me he will not be diverted by claims

about the deference that Brexit makes to airport expansion and

address the costs to the taxpayer of road and rail infrastructure that

are required for a third runway and look at the comparative costs with

other alternatives such as at Gatwick? It is clearly important

that we take the decision we take in the interests of the nation, to

foster ties around the world and in Europe. We are not leaving Europe

but the European Union, we want to retain good economic ties with our

neighbours in Europe. What is important is to take the right

decision for the whole of the nation.

Question number six, Mr Speaker. Mr Speaker, successive governments

have taking the view that tolling is justified on certain infrastructure

such as significant crossings. Before the general election the

former Chancellor promised motorists in Cheshire West discounts on the

tolls to be brought in on the new Mersey gate Weybridge and the old

Jubilee Bridge. I have no objection for the government paying for

discounts for motorists but constituents in Liverpool and

Moseley live closer to the bridges and rely on them as much as people

who live in Chester and in Warrington. Will the minister have a

word with the new Chancellor and ask him to provide money to pay for the

discounts to my constituents? Imagined that the honourable lady

would ask that question. She is right that local discounts operate

on the gate Weybridge. The government is looking to extend the

discounts. But let me be clear. Officials are working through the

character and effect of the extension. No decision has been made

on it. Of course, I will give full consideration to the argument she

has made on behalf of her constituents and others.

Is a toll considered for the proposed cross Pennine road link? I

did say at the outset, Mr Speaker, that successive governments have

taken the view that tolling is for the major infrastructure of schemes.

But the honourable gentleman will know as the mayors were spoken of

early and being considered, no decisions have been made to the

effect he describes. The M4 is the supply route into the

Welsh economy and hence there is cross-party support for the

devolving of the ownership of several bridges, can he update us

with the discussions on this issue? I am happy to ask discussions with

the Welsh Government. My view about this is clear, we have been very, I

think, plain about the toll on that important crossing. It is this

Government government that when the current regime comes to its

conclusion in 2018 in that respect, it will halve the toll. We are going

to halve the toll. He must welcome that. He knows about the decision. I

hope after today's questions and the press release, congratulate the

government tonne! On behalf of the SNP, may I welcome the Secretary of

State and his new ministers to their place. Was the minister aware that

the first act of the SNP Scottish Government was to introduce the

abolition of tolls act. Meaning in Scotland there is no need for

discounts. Tolls are gone. Saving commuters around screened hundreds

of pounds a year and boosting tourism and the economy, has he

studied this model for his own use? I will give a short answer, Scottish

independence, for me, they could not afford that anymore.

There will be no tolls either on the new ?3 billion duelling of the A 9.

On the subject of the the A 9 will the minister congratulate the

Scottish Government on the safety cameras on the non-dual part of the

road to Inverness, previously opposed, that has seen speeding drop

from #3 40% to 10%. And reduce injuries. Will he consider that?

Volunteers we give consideration to those matters. It is important to

give credit where it is due. When I have worked out, following his

rather long where the credit is due, I will decide where to give it.

Question number nine. Thank you Mr Speaker, with your

permission I will answer this together with number 15. Local

councils have the powers to provide effective licensing arrangements in

their area. We will consult on licensing authorities once the

parliamentary process is complete. The internet and smartphone use has

revolutionised private hire vehicle and usage. There is technology that

is regulating this? The legislation that governs the sector goes back

into the age of the horse and the carriage.

That is why the Government asked the law commission to take a review of

taxi and private hire in England and Wales. We are responding to the law

commission's report in due course. Sheffield City Council believes that

the tough policy on child sexual exploitation is useless. Will the

minister meet with me and other colleagues to discuss taxi licensing

in relation to CSE? I would be happy to meet with the honourable lady.

Point out whatever licensing area you are operating you have to ensure

that a fit and proper test is carried out.

Can I also welcome the Secretary of State. He knows my city of Cambridge

well. We look forward to him coming to open the new railway station, and

he knows that Cambridge is full of people who thinks that prisoners

should read books and Britain should be in the European Union.

We have heard of the problems in the taxi trade, and the procrastination

and inaction since the law commissioned report. In a debate

raised by my friend, the minister told us some months ago he was about

to act. Yet in a written question to me a few days ago he said that the

Government has no plans to bring forward legislation in the current

session. How much longer will yes to wait? This is a complex matter, we

are working through it. The issue of child sexual exploitation in the

area has taking action by moving the guidance to a statutory basis as

soon as the policing and crime bill has reached such dissent.

What a striking contrast with the Mayor of London, does the minister

recognise the problem with cross border licensing? We have heard that

there are councils handing out licences like confetti, clogging up

the streets of London, adding to congestion, how much longer to wait

before you take the problem seriously? The Government is taking

the issue seriously. I am aware of the actions taken by the Mayor of

London. But it is worth to ensure to get the actions right. I understand

that one of the operators has won the right to a judicial review.

We started late because of the preliminary announcement, but we

must have much shorter questions. Questions have been simply far too

long. There are no current plans to extend the Crossrail route, and a

proposed extension would need to be in the best interest of rail

passengers. Crossrail is on budget, on time and going to dramatically

reduce journey times across London. The one area of the capital that is

not advantaged by this is north-west London. Will my honourable friend

look at the business case that there is to expand the network so all the

Londoners can benefit from Crossrail? He is right to point out

the connectivity benefits, and I know that they have looked at the

possibility of extending Crossrail through Harrow, which he has been

campaigning for, and into Hertfordshire. It was found by

Crossrail, Transport for London and Network Rail to offer poor value for

money, therefore we are not taking it forward at this time, but we keep

it under review. As much as I would like my constituents to benefit from

an expanded cross -- Crossrail network, geography makes it

unlikely. Can he tell me what his assessment is of his submission from

South-eastern Trains for additional rolling stock? We always want to

make sure that commuters in London, one of the most burdened parts of

the network, have the best possible chance of having reliable,

predictable, punctual service with a good chance of getting a seat. That

is why we are investing is a many billions in new carriages across

London, the south-east, under 13 years of Labour Government. Unlike

13 years of Labour Government. The government is committed to

Crossrail, which will be the backbone of the rail network. I have

spent a lot of time looking at the full extent of the route, so I fully

understand the issues around it. In Liverpool there are concerns that we

will not be properly connected to HS2, which will be challenging for

passengers and for transporting freight which comes into the new

super port. It also calls into question a genuine Northern

Powerhouse. Can he confirm that the provision for the junction for a

junction link will be announced in the Autumn Statement? I cannot

preannounced the Autumn Statement. I am a regular visitor to Liverpool

and I am well aware of the transport challenges around the city, and I am

proud we are spending ?350 million today on rail improvements. Will he

agree that the biggest disadvantage of the HS2 Vit is that it does not

go to Cleethorpes, and as he knows we are urgently in need of our

direct service to King's Cross. Will he continue to work with me to try

to deliver a direct service to Cleethorpes? I will be delighted to

always work with him on improving the system in Cleethorpes, but I am

afraid I will not deliver on HS2 arriving there. HS2 is meant to be a

jewel in the crown of infrastructure, but in a review of

the Public Accounts Committee it is losing some of its lustre. To still

not know how much it will cost, what the route will be, and when it will

open is unacceptable. The government are losing grip on this project.

Will he take this opportunity to answer why his department have

failed to set a workable timetable for HS2 Ltd and give their

guaranteed to deliver the entire high-speed railway? I do not want to

start my relationship with a bad note -- with the gentleman on a bad

note, but that is nonsense. The work will start next year. We aim to

deliver on as planned in the middle of the next decade. Later this

autumn we will set out in detail the remaining route, and I am proud to

do that. The DVLA deals with around 600,000 medical cases each year, the

vast majority do with the and efficiently, but the other 10% are

complex, requiring consultation with several medical professionals. Each

case is taken on its merits, so this takes time. The DVLA has taken on

over 100 extra staff and additional medicals -- medical professionals.

If you're cleared of your condition, it takes time for the processing. If

some people lose their licence, they can also be losing their ability to

continue their career. So far we have been successful in processing,

with the average of 53 days, and this year it is 38, we are reducing

that even further. This government is making the

biggest investment in railways since the Victorian era, enabling more and

longer trains to operate on busy routes. 563 new carriages are

planned to enter service by the end of 2020. Why is his department

waited two years before even making a decision on the privately financed

money available to electrify the line to Hull? I will not have a

theological debate whether this is privately or publicly financed, but

I recognise she has been a campaigner for improved services to

Hull, and as far as I'm concerned connectivity is important and I look

forward to giving her good news. Electrification of the Chastelain

will help address issues of overcrowding, but I'm aware that

there may be delays in getting electric trains on the line. Will he

review this issue and do everything in his power to ensure we get

electric trains as soon as possible. We had a productive meeting with the

honourable Lady last week. She is a doughty campaigner on of this line,

and she will continue to press for further advantages on this issue. --

advances. The service on southern rail is the worst in the country,

and passengers have endured overcrowding for far too long.

Removing hundreds of services a day has exacerbated this. When will he

bring the misery of long-suffering passengers to an end and intervene?

Or does he agree with the former rail minister who said there are no

circumstances that would warrant GTR being stripped of the franchise? I'm

sure he will welcome the fact we now have over two thirds of the services

that were taken out of the timetable may put back in again. Our focus is

on restoring normality to the service and putting the passengers

first. Services improving on a regular basis with more services

returning to a full timetable. Briefly, thank you again to the SNP

for their kind words of introduction to myself and the team. It is great

to be back after a decade. I am very proud that my first actions as

Secretary of State were firstly to give the go-ahead for the expansion

of the airport and second leads to visit the Bombardier factory to

announce a ?1 billion new train order for this country. I would like

to thank all the people making it a success. Will the government count

the mileage on the road that remain and adopted by local highways

authorities that include a growing number... Will be ensure that no

council road remains unadopted -- local road remains unadopted in ten

years? I will happily talk about the situation in catering with them, it

remains unacceptable. The Minister will be wearing national newspapers

for action -- will be aware of the national newspaper calling for

action against people using mobile phones while driving. Will he work

with those, the daily Mirror and others to clamp-down on this

practice? First of all they were in power for 13 years and did not

tackle the issue. Secondly, I am very clear that this is an

acceptable practice. It is one in which we intend to unveil tough

action on it. To ministers agree that the Brighton mainline rail line

that has a feasibility study on boing at the moment, do the agree

that this is the only realistic long-term solution to increase rail

capacity to the Sussex coast? I am interested in this, and it is being

looked at carefully, but I would say to every member and passengers of

the southern route, the issues of the last few months have been

unacceptable. I am working hard with all of those involved and have

unveiled a number of changes in recent weeks which will help to

resolve it as quickly as possible. It has to be resolved. Policy bands

local authorities providing bus services. The Minister explain how

this clause can possibly be reconciled with the government's

so-called devolution? It is simply because the government is giving

more powers to local authorities to franchise. We were anxious that the

powers to commission and provide were separated. Two out of three

platforms at Lichfield Trent Valley Railway Station, which is on the

West Coast mainline, are completely inaccessible to disabled people.

First there was a plan to make it accessible, then they said it was

delayed. People in Lichfield and in particular the member of Parliament

for Lichfield, is getting irritated about this. What is happening? I am

grateful for the question. Like me, he is an advocate of a proved

accessibility. -- improved accessibility. Work was prioritised,

and I hope to announce shortly which stations will be prioritised again.

I stop in Lichfield Trent Valley myself, largely in the dark, and I'm

aware there is a need for accessibility. I look forward to

meet with him to further discuss it. Stephen Kinnock. Where is he? Rail

passengers in the north, including the Calder Valley line, are

frequently packed onto ageing trains including pacers. It is encouraging

to see that a reader North rail have signed a deal to deliver hundreds of

new carriages from October 2018, but what assurances can he get that ever

short financing will not lead to delays and fare increases? -- Arriva

North rail. She shares my interest in seeing the back of Pacers, and

she will be pleased that they will be disappearing by December 2019. An

improvement on the Calder Valley would improve in two phases, on the

east, 2019, and the West this year. The consultation on the North

timetable continues, but the platform facility at Stevenage will

not be completed, so can the Minister of intervene and persuade

net future rail -- Hertfordshire rail to sort this out? I have

recently been made aware of the situation and I do not want to see

the timetable held back, I will be be engaging with all involved.

Constituent has complained to me that his commuter rail fare has been

increased from last week by 35%. Does the Minister agree that this

should not be done without consultation and further more should

be against the law? I always recognise the concerns of customers

behind a pay. I have been clear with the rail industry so far that they

have to put the passengers first. The convenience of Lee Ingleby

subsidiary and set current noise levels from Heathrow flights are

breaching medically safe guidance for my residents. Will he meet with

me to discuss how his department can help us to address this very serious

concern? I will be delighted to meet with her. I am aware of the noise

issues and I am pleased to see that the latest generation of aircraft

are bringing down noise levels but I recognise there is still a big

challenge for residents close to Heathrow and other airports around

the United Kingdom. Is he able to offer reassurance to residents and

businesses on HS2 compensation? We have heard about the report, is

chief executive resigned this week. They see it as a white elephant. As

she knows there is a substantial compensation scheme in place for

those affected by HS2. HS2 will bring greater prosperity across the

United Kingdom and I hope she will recognise that and support it,

notwithstanding local challenges. In a few weeks' time it is likely

that the House will be asked if they want a new runway at Gatwick or

Heathrow. All of the evidence suggests that even in the Government

gives a green light to Heathrow, there will be problems, will the

minister invoke a clear risk assessment, looking the

environmental, planning risks, legal risks so that the House can take a

proper decision on the deliverability of the scheme? I can

assure you that when the time comes to bring these matters to the House

that the detailed information on which the Government has formed its

view, is right and proper. You will know that there are differing

opinions in the House, and three strong proposals for us to consider

from. We will take the best possible decision in the interests of the

nations. I'm sure most of us in the House will do the same.

There is concern over the number of road accidents involving young

people. There is research that supports the case that young drivers

between the ages of 17 and 21, are far more likely to crash than

drivers over the age of 70. With this in mind, would you look at a

driver's licensing scheme? Many rely on cars to get to work and indeed

college. We are focussing on learner drivers to be better prepared. That

is the reform package around the driving tests and the consultation

on that closed a few days ago. Do you still consider that this

autumn the new proposals for the HS2 route to Leeds will be published? Mr

Speaker, it is my intention to publish details of the northern

part, the last leg to Manchester later this autumn. It is definitely

my intention to do that. What is the minister's assessment of

when the seven bridges concession will end given the extra traffic and

the work going on and other dates where you have not had a date yet

for public consultation. It is right to have that confidence.

I am happy to commit to doing the works necessary to reassure the

honourable lady about that. It must be safe, secure and right. I am more

than happy to make that commitment. I call Parliament's grass roots

sports champion of the year! Thank you Mr Speaker. People in Corby

would like a greater number of rail services north and southbound. Will

the minister have discussions on this for the future? I am happy to

take suggestions on how to improve rail services across the country. I

would like to hear from him about what is needed in Corby.

Given the connectivity on rail, would you assure that the aviation

and minister officials give prompt consideration to the for the city of

Derry for a twice daily service to London? The answer to that is yes it

is on my desk. I am pleased over the summer, the link to North America

was kept in place. Good connectivity in Northern Ireland is good and

should always be possible. I requested a meeting to discuss the

failings that my constituents have had at the hands of Network Rail.

Would you suggest a meeting on that today? Yes! As we are seeing a

bonfire of the vanity projects associated with the former

Chancellor and Prime Minister, would it be sensible to add to the list,

healing the advice of Rod Eddington in the 2006 study to bin HS2 and

focus on the local capacity to benefit passengers and regions? The

trick is to do both. I can assure him as a Birmingham member of

Parliament he is absolutely not speaking the same language as his

City Council as many of those involved in the business community

in Birmingham, looking forward to the benefits that HS2 will bring to

that city. Will my right honourable friend

commit if there are further delays in the announcement of HS2 that

affects my constituency, that compensation is given to the

residents whose properties are blighted? I will talk to the

honourable lady about it. It is not my desire to delay routes. It is the

intention to set out further plans this autumn.

Concerning Vauxhall Zafira mod es going on fire. 300 in the UK, will

he agree to meet with myself and affected drivers later in the year.

The DVSA has met with this and continues to laze with Vauxhall.

There have been two safety recalls. I would be happy to meet with the

gentlemen gentleman. For 25 years, the link road in my

constituency is vital, backed by the local council and in the July budget

book, will the minister meet with me to discuss bringing this forward?

Yes! Will the minister agree to invite all members served by

south-eastern trains to a meeting with the honourable member for

Bromley? Our constituents are suffering daily disruption to the

lives as a result of the poor network south.

I recognise this and I am happy to meet with all members on all sides.

As the Government has committed to the development of Crossrail 2. Will

my honourable friend give the support for the construction of four

tracking on the West Anglia line, the integral part of it? I look

forward to reading about it and discussing it with him.

My constituency work at Liverpool airport faced paying extra pounds

each year when the toll is opened, can we talk about the costs for the

tolls so that people are not charged further going to work.

I am very happy to look at the detail of this. I am open minded as

is well-known. A defining characteristic of the

radical gentleman, having known him for 30 years.

Insurance for young drivers has become expensive. One method put

forward is a black box system to monitor the driving and there by

reduce the costs. Can other insurance companies use

this system so that the young drivers take advantage of it? There

are cheaper premiums if you accept the benefits that technolgy

provides. I have met with the insurance industry and will raise

this concern with them. To his rely on the deadly menace of

mobile phone use, did the Secretary of State hear the statement that use

of mobile phones impairs drivers' ability more seriously than

drinking? And that the ?50 fine is inadequate response to this deadly

menace on the road? I am sorry but I will be outlining tough plans on

this in response to a sense of pressure from wider groups outside.

He mentioned a national newspaper, The Daily Mail are also doing so,

arched there is a right to do so, and this is in my view happening far

too often. I had a debate on the establishment

of an independent aviation noise authority, given his words today on

noise pollution from aviation aircraft, will he commit to

supporting the establishment of an independent aviation noise

authority? Well, given the pending decisions on runways which I will

not set out those plans today. But will take note of what she says and

that the noise is a major one for us.

Can you confirm that the Secretary of State confirms announcements to

allow TFL to take over south eastern services when the contract lapses?

My concern and the Government's concern is that devolution has to

happen when it makes a difference, not just for its own sake. I am

waiting for proposals from the Mayor about how he thinks that the

services can be enhanced in London before making chances.

I would like a word with the Chancellor to reverse a 25% cut that

Scotland has suffered for investment in road and rail in Scotland? Mr

Speaker, in my view Scotland benefits enormously from the funding

provided as part of the United Kingdom. That will continue unless

they seek to change the situation and puts Scotland in a situation

that they will be far worse off. Order. The Royal Assent Act 19 of 7.

Her Majesty gave signature to the Royal Act. Finances Act, 2016. Aber

dasher's Act Charity Act 2016. Business question: Paul Palestinian.

Will the leader give us the business of the House in the week following

this unnecessarily protracted recess? Mr Speaker, the business for

the week commencing the 10th of October will be as follows: Monday

10th of October a motion to approve the second report, 2016 to 2017 from

the committee of privileges. Followed by the second reading of

the neighbourhood planning