theodi/ndl-core-corpus huggingface dataset:
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Siân Berry:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 13 February 2025 to Question 29617 on Heathrow Airport, if she will update her Department's Appraisal of sustainability for the proposed Airports National Policy Statement, published 5 June 2018, as part of her review of the Airports National Policy Statement. \p Mike Kane: The Secretary of State will determine the scope of the review of the Airports National Policy Statement. She will comply with any statutory requirements relating to carrying out an appraisal of sustainability of an amended National Policy Statement set out in the Planning Act 2008.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Mike Martin:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of introducing a railcard for (a) civilian police staff and (b) civil servants. \p Simon Lightwood: The Railways Act 1993 requires all train operators to participate in approved discount card schemes for young travellers, disabled passengers and those over 60. These groups are offered discounted travel because it is broadly assumed that, because of age or circumstances, they are likely to be earning less than adults of typical working age. Our intention is that, once established, Great British Railways (GBR) should be required by legislation to retain these discounts. Further voluntary discount cards have been introduced by the Rail Delivery Group.

There are no current plans to review railcards in advance of the transition to GBR, but it will have the opportunity to take a fresh look at the justification of the eligibility and restrictions of some railcards. Any long-term changes or concessions made to rail fares policy will require balancing against the potential impacts on passengers, taxpayers and the railway.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Blake Stephenson:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 13 March 2025 to Question 35856 on Railways: Standards, which stations in (a) England and (b) Bedfordshire are most impacted by cancelling stops to make services run faster; and on how many weekdays in 2024-25 one or more cancellations have happened at each of those stations. \p Simon Lightwood: Data on cancellations is published by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) on their data portal which can be accessed here: https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/statistics/performance/passenger-rail-performance/

Data showing the punctuality of trains at individual stations across England is available for the first time ever on a periodic basis. The statistics cover over 1,700 stations and also show reliability of services. This service can be accessed here: https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/statistics/performance/performance-at-stations

The available data identifies specific stations, but it does not provide cancellation reasons nor on which days cancellations occurred.

Cancellations can be frustrating to passengers, especially when made at short notice. The department expects train operators to recover services as quickly as possible and minimize impact upon passengers. Ministers are meeting with managing directors of Train Operating Companies and Network Rail to address poor performance and demand immediate action to raise standards.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she plans to review the civil resilience of Heathrow airport. \p Mike Kane: UK aviation operates in the private sector. Therefore, the resilience and contingency plans in place are the responsibility of the industry. However, we recognise the importance of aviation to critical national infrastructure, and our ability to travel and do business.

The Energy Secretary has commissioned an urgent investigation which will help to build a clear picture of the circumstances surrounding the recent incident at Heathrow, and the UK’s energy resilience more broadly, so that it’s prevented from ever happening again.

Heathrow Airport has also announced an internal review by Ruth Kelly, former Transport Secretary and an independent member of Heathrow's board. This review will be presented to Heathrow’s board in May.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Andrew Rosindell:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she has taken to work with the Northern Ireland Assembly to improve public transportation in Northern Ireland. \p Simon Lightwood: Transport is largely devolved in Northern Ireland, but the UK Government has supported Northern Ireland with funding for the Northern Ireland EV Charging Network, upgrades at Belfast International Airport, and extensions to the Comber–Newtownards and Newtownards–Bangor Greenways. Since 2017, the Department and the Northern Ireland Executive have jointly funded a Public Service Obligation (PSO) between City of Derry Airport and London. We recently agreed to continue supporting the PSO until March 2027. During a visit to Belfast for the British-Irish Council earlier this month, I also met Liz Kimmins, the Executive's Infrastructure Minister, where we discussed active travel and progress in the transition to electric vehicles.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Seamus Logan:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what her Department's original budget for HS2 Phase 2 was; how much her Department has spent since that project started; and what the estimated final cost is in (a) real and (b) current terms. \p Lilian Greenwood: The original funding envelopes (in 2015 prices) for Phase 2a was £3.72bn and £24.8bn for Phase 2b. Spend on the HS2 project can be found in the latest Parliamentary Report here , which is updated and published at regular intervals. The project currently reports estimated final costs in 2019 prices.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_532
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether any (a) land and (b) infrastructure used for the new Universal Studios Theme Park in Bedfordshire be acquired via compulsory purchase order. \p Simon Lightwood: At this early stage there is no land that is expected to be acquired via compulsory purchase order for the Universal Studios theme park or its associated transport infrastructure.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Lisa Smart:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps his Department is taking to prevent third-party websites from misleading members of the public by imitating the DVLA online services. \p Lilian Greenwood: The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) advises customers to use GOV.UK as the official and only website when seeking information or completing applications. All DVLA literature directs customers to the official GOV.UK website. The DVLA also uses its external communication channels, including social media, to publish advice and to remind motorists that GOV.UK is the only website for government motoring services.

The DVLA investigates reports of organisations which act illegally or are actively misleading users about their services. Where appropriate such sites can be and are taken down promptly.

DVLA officials have regular discussions and briefings, with the National Cyber Security Centre, to assess and prevent a range of risks. The DVLA is also a longstanding user of the National Cyber Security Centre active cyber defence services and regularly uses the Netcraft takedown service for removing malicious websites.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_534
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Adam Thompson:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what consultation her Department has undertaken with the construction industry in advance of a reduction in the maximum operating weight for a volumetric concrete mobile plant. \p Lilian Greenwood: A call for evidence conducted from October to December 2023 was an opportunity for interested parties, including the construction industry, to present evidence, but it did not reveal significant new evidence supporting a change in policy.

The decision announced reflects the continuation of the existing policy, as set out in 2018, that the temporary weight exemption for VCMs will come to an end in 2028.

My Department engaged with hon. Members and industry stakeholders through correspondence prior to the publication of the outcome of the call for evidence.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Sir John Hayes:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency has offered apprenticeships in each year since 2010. \p Lilian Greenwood: The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency has offered apprenticeships every year since 2015. Specific data wasn’t collected before 2015 although apprenticeships were available.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Mr Paul Kohler:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the contribution of businesses utilising rail travel to the effectiveness of the rail network; and what steps she is taking to consult with business on her planned reforms to the rail sector. \p Simon Lightwood: We recognise that business travel is a significant reason for using the railways. Research just published has shown that 15 per cent of journeys on DfT-contracted rail passenger services were made for business travel.

On 18 February we launched the eight-week public consultation on the Railways Bill, which closes on 15 April. The proposals will put passengers back at the heart of our railways.

This consultation is very much the beginning of an ongoing process of engagement that will continue throughout the policy development and legislative process.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Lisa Smart:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department plans to increase the £2.50 fee charged by private parking companies for each V888/3 application to access vehicle keeper data from the DVLA to use in issuing parking charge notices. \p Lilian Greenwood: The £2.50 fee is set to recover the cost of providing the information and ensures that the cost is borne by the requester, not passed on to the taxpayer. In line with Managing Public Money, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency reviews its fees regularly to ensure that fees are set to recover the costs of providing the service.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_538
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Rebecca Paul:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent discussions she has had with National Highways on its programme of (a) turning off and (b) removing lights on motorways. \p Lilian Greenwood: The Department meets monthly with National Highways to discuss its performance and delivery. This includes discussions on the company’s actions to meet its Key Performance Indicator targets, one of which is Corporate Carbon reduction. Electricity used to light the strategic road network is by far the biggest contributor to National Highways’ overall carbon emissions. To meet the reduction target, National Highways has been trialling turning off some sections of lighting, where it has been assessed safe to do so, alongside its LED replacement programme.

The Office of Rail and Road, as the independent highways monitor, also meets the Department monthly to provide advice on National Highways’ plans and ongoing performance, also covering the Company’s actions to reduce its carbon emissions.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Phil Brickell:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has had discussions with Northern Rail on the potential impact of the proposed reduction in (a) Sunday and (b) late evening services between Westhoughton Station and Manchester central stations on local connectivity. \p Simon Lightwood: Northern trains have no plans to reduce services on the Manchester-Southport line that serves Westhoughton. Some Sunday services have been temporarily removed from the timetable. This was agreed by Northern leaders as part of Northern’s work to stabilise and then improve services, including to Westhoughton.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_540
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Sir John Hayes:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether the Office of Rail and Road has offered apprenticeships since 2010. \p Simon Lightwood: The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has offered apprenticeships since 2017. ORR currently has 15 people undertaking an apprenticeship.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions her Department has had with Dorset Council on on-street parking around Dorchester South railway station. \p Lilian Greenwood: The Department has not had discussions with Dorset Council on this matter. Responsibility for implementing parking restrictions rests with the appropriate local authority, as they are best placed to consider how to balance the needs of residents, emergency services, local business and those who work in and visit the area. Dorset Council has civil parking enforcement powers to deal with any contraventions of their parking restrictions.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Rebecca Paul:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, when she expects contactless ticketing to be rolled out to Reigate train station. \p Simon Lightwood: The Department announced last year that Reigate would be included in the next tranche of pay-as-you-go stations during contactless expansion. Further details on timing are not available at this stage, but Reigate Station will get contactless ticketing before the end of 2025.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Tim Roca:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of making the national driver offender retraining scheme course a standard part of the driving theory test. \p Lilian Greenwood: The government has no plans to make the national driver offender retraining scheme (NDORS) course a standard part of the driving theory test.

NDORS courses are designed for drivers who have committed appropriate road traffic offences; not those learning to drive. NDORS courses cover the most up to date road rules and legal requirements, as set by The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, and are already assessed in the theory test for learner drivers.

NDORS courses are developed using nationally recognised behavioural change techniques by industry experts and academics. Courses focus on changing minds and behaviour to prevent future re-offending relating to appropriate road traffic offences.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_544
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Blake Stephenson:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will make an estimate of the potential impact of East West Rail on passenger numbers on Thameslink services (a) from London to Bedford, (b) from Bedford to London, (c) northbound on the East Coast Main Line and (d) southbound on the East Coast Main Line. \p Simon Lightwood: East West Rail Co. will be considering abstraction of passengers from other services as part of the Outline Business Case for East West Rail.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Navendu Mishra:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether permission from her Department was required by Avanti West Coast to undertake its station rostering review. \p Simon Lightwood: Permission is not required to undertake a review of working practices made in the ordinary course of business. If potential staff rostering affected changes to ticket office opening hours, the train operator would need to follow the process of the Ticketing and Settlement Agreement conditions and Secretary of State guidance.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent discussions she has had with construction companies on potential changes to volumetric concrete mixers. \p Lilian Greenwood: My Department has engaged with hon. Members and the Volumetric Concrete Mixer (VCM) industry through correspondence. The call for evidence on this topic conducted from October to December 2023 was an opportunity for interested parties to present evidence, but it did not reveal significant new evidence supporting a change in policy.

The decision announced reflects the continuation of the existing policy, as set out in 2018, that the temporary weight exemption for VCMs will come to an end in 2028.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Rebecca Paul:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions she has had with (a) Network Rail and (b) other stakeholders on transport improvements in Reigate constituency. \p Simon Lightwood: Officials in my Department are in regular discussions with Network Rail on opportunities to improve services across the Brighton Main Line, including in the Reigate area. As part of Network Rail’s Railway Upgrade Plan, £900 million is being invested in renewing the railway across the route between 2024 and 2029. In preparing for Spending Review 2025 we are assessing potential transport investments, ensuring every penny spent supports our missions and the plan for growth.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_548
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to alleviate congestion caused by on-street parking around Dorchester South railway station. \p Simon Lightwood: This Government recognises the need to ensure people can travel to and from railway stations with minimal delays. The relevant local authority is responsible for dealing with traffic management issues and these include governing on-street parking provision and restrictions. They are in the best position to determine how to manage these so that congestion can be reduced for local people as much as possible.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Rebecca Paul:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, following the the 18 month assessment period for light switch off between junctions 8 and 9 of the M25, when she expects the TA 501 road lighting appraisal to be available. \p Lilian Greenwood: National Highways expect the appraisal to be completed in January 2026 and the TA501 assessment will be made available from National Highways, upon request, after a decision has been made on the future of the lighting in this location.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Lisa Smart:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if he will support the development of a new bypass to link the A6 at Hazel Grove with the M60 at Bredbury. \p Lilian Greenwood: This Government is committed to renewing national infrastructure, improving England’s road network and driving growth as part of its Plan for Change. It has been clear that any funding decisions will be part of a long-term infrastructure strategy for this country, as stated within the manifesto. Decisions on funding more generally beyond 2025/26 is a matter for the forthcoming Spending Review.

Any assessment of the adequacy of the current or projected future capacity of the A6 road corridor between Hazel Grove and Whaley Bridge is a matter for the local highway authority.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Blake Stephenson:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 13 March 2025 to Question 35855 on Govia Thameslink Railway: Standards, whether the timetable referred to would reduce the number of services provided on a given line in some cases. \p Simon Lightwood: Currently all train operators are required to plan services and timetables designed to meet both current and future passenger demand, while also ensuring value for money for the taxpayer.

In the future Great British Railways (GBR) will be accountable for decisions on the use of the railway including in relation to the planning of train services. GBR will plan and implement an achievable, reliable timetable, so that the services promised to passengers are delivered. It is anticipated that better coordination of the timetable will reduce delays, improve reliability and reduce costs.

GBR will need to continually reassess its services to ensure it provides rail timetables that meet passenger travel patterns, are fit for the future, and carefully balance cost, capacity and performance. This could potentially result in increases or decreases in service levels across different routes to ensure the best outcomes for both passengers and taxpayers.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_552
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Lisa Smart:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether his Department has made an assessment of the adequacy of the (a) current and (b) projected future capacity of the A6 road corridor between Hazel Grove and Whaley Bridge. \p Lilian Greenwood: This Government is committed to renewing national infrastructure, improving England’s road network and driving growth as part of its Plan for Change. It has been clear that any funding decisions will be part of a long-term infrastructure strategy for this country, as stated within the manifesto. Decisions on funding more generally beyond 2025/26 is a matter for the forthcoming Spending Review.

Any assessment of the adequacy of the current or projected future capacity of the A6 road corridor between Hazel Grove and Whaley Bridge is a matter for the local highway authority.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_553
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department will provide funding to Dorset Council to improve parking facilities at Dorchester South station. \p Simon Lightwood: This Government recognises the importance of sufficient parking provision at railway stations. Decisions on specific projects are a matter for the relevant local authority. However, we have recently announced that Dorset Council will receive nearly £2 million as part of the Integrated Transport Block which can be used to support a wide variety of schemes and make transport more accessible. In addition, the Council has been allocated over £3.8 million to make improvements to their local bus services. This funding gives Local Authorities an opportunity to consider whether it would be viable to integrate public transport provision with local railway stations, offering an alternative mode of transport for people to travel to those locations.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has made an estimate of the number of additional lorry drivers required when volumetric concrete mixers operate at the standard weight limit for HGVs. \p Lilian Greenwood: The call for evidence on Volumetric Concrete Mixers (VCMs) conducted by the Department for Transport from October to December 2023 was an opportunity for respondents to present evidence, but it did not reveal significant new evidence supporting a change in policy.

The outcome of this review was published on 18 March. This can be found at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/calls-for-evidence/volumetric-concrete-mixers-review

Current exemptions to weight limits for VCMs will expire in 2028. This policy is being maintained.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Stuart Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department is taking steps to identify long-term solutions to (a) potholes and (b) other road defects. \p Lilian Greenwood: The Government takes the condition of local roads very seriously and is committed to enabling local highway authorities to maintain and renew their local highway networks effectively. For this financial year 2025/26 we have already announced a funding uplift of £500 million, compared to the last financial year, for local authorities to spend on highway maintenance. Through our new reporting requirements we are encouraging local authorities to focus on long-term preventative strategies rather than the short-term patching of potholes.

The Department also encourages and supports innovation and best practice in road surface repairs in other ways. It is updating the Code of Practice for Well-Managed Highway Infrastructure, which will contain new advice on matters such as surface treatments. It is also supporting a £30 million research programme which is allowing local authorities to trial innovative low-carbon ways of looking after their networks. One of the projects is allowing novel resurfacing materials to be tested and evaluated.

National Highways is also trialling innovative ways of resurfacing parts of the Strategic Road Network to give longer-lasting and more environmentally friendly results. Their work on projects like the resurfacing of the A64 in Yorkshire could pave the way for industry-wide changes, resulting in significant carbon savings and improved road surfaces for drivers.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_556
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Rebecca Paul:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, when she expects National Highways to decide on whether the lights along the M25 between Junctions 8 and 9 will be switched back on at night. \p Lilian Greenwood: National Highways expects to be in a position to make a decision on the lighting in this location once the current evaluation is finished and the appraisal is completed, which is expected to be in January 2026.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_557
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Rebecca Paul:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she plans to improve accessibility at Earlswood train station. \p Simon Lightwood: This Government is committed to improving the accessibility of the railway and recognises the social and economic benefits this brings to communities. We are carefully considering the best approach to the Access for All programme and will announce the next steps after completion of the Spending Review.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_558
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Rebecca Paul:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions she has had with (a) Network Rail and (b) other stakeholders on creating a 12 car turn-back facility at Reigate train station since July 2024. \p Simon Lightwood: The Reigate 12 car scheme was closed by the previous Government following Spending Review 2021. No development work has taken place on the project since this point.

Officials in my Department are in regular discussions with Network Rail on opportunities to improve services across the Brighton Main Line, including the Reigate area. In preparing for Spending Review 2025 we are assessing potential transport investments, ensuring every penny spent supports our missions and the plan for growth.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_559
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Sarah Gibson:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she plans to maintain the current number of driving test centres in rural communities. \p Lilian Greenwood: The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is committed to providing its customers, including those in rural areas, with the best service possible. DVSA continually reviews its estate to ensure it represents good value for money and is efficient.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_560
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she has taken to prevent the loss of driving licence entitlements during DVLA system updates, and how frequently these measures are reviewed for effectiveness. \p Lilian Greenwood: Updates to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) systems are rigorously planned and assessed so that impacts and risks are understood.

The DVLA has recorded 176 instances where drivers claimed they were missing entitlement between 2020 and 2024. These mainly relate back to when the DVLA was established and driving records were computerised. The DVLA undertakes a full investigation in each case including a search of existing and archived records. If no information is held, the driver will be asked to supply any information they may have to evidence previous entitlement.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_561
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Blake Stephenson:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the press release entitled PM tells councils to prove action on pothole plague to unlock extra cash and reveals £4.8 billion for major roads, published on 23 March 2025, whether her Department has made an estimate of the potential cost of publishing details by local authorities. \p Lilian Greenwood: The additional costs to local highway authorities of complying with the Department’s new reporting requirements are likely to be minimal. The Department has made clear that it is looking for short reports in plain English, to be published on authorities’ websites, and it has provided templates for these to make the task simpler. It is only right that local highway authorities should be held to account in this way for their use of the £500 million of additional highway maintenance funding in the current financial year.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_562
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

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Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent discussions her Department has had with equestrian organisations on improving (a) infrastructure and (b) safety measures for horse riders on rural roads. \p Lilian Greenwood: This Government is committed to reducing the numbers of those killed and injured on our roads and my Department works with a broad range of stakeholders, including the British Horse Society, to help us achieve our aim.

In 2022, The Highway Code was updated to improve the safety of all road users, particularly the most vulnerable. Key changes included the introduction of a Hierarchy of Road Users, which ensures that those who do the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger or threat that they pose to others, along with the strengthening of guidance on safe passing distances and speeds when overtaking horse-riders.

THINK!, the Government's flagship road safety campaign, plays an important role in raising awareness of, and encouraging compliance with, new road safety legislation. This includes the recent changes to The Highway Code. THINK!, ran campaigns to alert road users of the changes as they came into effect, and broader behaviour campaigns to encourage understanding and uptake of the guidance. Results from the last campaign showed that by September 2023, 93% of drivers agreed it was their responsibility to give space to vulnerable road users. We will continue to promote The Highway Code changes on THINK! and DfT social media channels and via our partner organisations.

Local authorities are responsible for road safety on the local road network. Section 39 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 puts a 'statutory duty' on local authorities to provide a safe local road network. This includes road construction, accident investigation and analysis, traffic calming and setting speed limits.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_563
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_563

Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to improve the accessibility of (a) e-scooters, (b) e-bikes and (c) bicycles in rural areas. \p Lilian Greenwood: The Government wants to make smaller, lighter vehicles an everyday transport option, including for those in rural areas where it works for their journeys.

On 28 March the Government announced to Parliament its intention to publish a third Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy (CWIS3) following the conclusion of the Spending Review. This will allow us to say more on the long-term ambition and funding for active travel as required by the legislation. The Government will consult on the strategy, with relevant stakeholders, ahead of its publication.

The Government recognises the benefits that rental schemes can bring, especially for those who otherwise could not afford to purchase a e-scooter, cycle or e-cycle. We are giving local leaders the powers to manage schemes in their areas, to give them the confidence they need that these schemes can work for whole communities, including through tackling anti-social behaviour and poor parking.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_564
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_564

Preet Kaur Gill:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what resources and support are available to people who are d/Deaf (a) in preparation for and (b) during their driving (i) theory and (ii) practical tests. \p Lilian Greenwood: The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) works with publishing partners, the Stationary Office, to publish The Highway Code and other materials to help people when learning to drive. The DVSA wants the content it produces to be as accessible as possible to everyone.

When booking a theory or practical test, candidates are advised to say if they have a reading difficulty, disability or health condition.

DVSA has recently worked with Cabinet Office to identify how the customer journey can be improved for d/Deaf candidates working towards their theory test. As a result, DVSA will be introducing improvements to British Sign Language (BSL) learning, theory test content, the theory test booking journey (including using BSL), and the experience at the theory test centre.

Candidates can already take their theory test in BSL if they are d/Deaf or have a hearing impairment; a BSL video appears on the screen next to the questions and answers.

Other options for theory test candidates include:

having a sign language interpreter or lip speaker with them during the test

using a listening aid (hearing loop)

It usually helps BSL users to learn their theory with a d/Deaf-aware driving instructor. The Disabled Driving Instructors association can help d/Deaf people with learning to drive and can be accessed at: www.disabilitydrivinginstructors.com/driving-advice/hearing-difficulties

When taking a car practical driving test, candidates can use a BSL interpreter, who can also be their driving instructor.

When taking the test, the driving examiner can use prompt cards to support a candidate that is d/Deaf or has hearing loss. These prompt cards give short written instructions and diagrams, so candidates know what they need to do.

These prompt cards are published on GOV.UK so learners can familiarise themselves with them before the test, and so that driving instructors can use them as part of their training or mock tests. Driving tests: prompt cards to support learner drivers who are deaf - GOV.UK.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_565
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_565

Blake Stephenson:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the press notice entitled PM tells councils to prove action on pothole plague to unlock extra cash and reveals £4.8 billion for major roads, published on 23 March 2025, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of publishing information on councils' progress in mending potholes centrally. \p Lilian Greenwood: In the first instance it will be up to local highway authorities to publish their progress reports on their own websites, as set out in the Department’s letter of 24 March to local authority chief executive officers which is available on gov.uk. The Department will review authorities’ reports and determine in due course what information to publish centrally.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_566
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_566

Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department provides funding for safe cycling routes to schools in rural areas. \p Simon Lightwood: The Government recently announced £222.5 million for local authorities outside London for the delivery of walking and cycling schemes. It is for local authorities to decide on local priorities for investment in local transport networks, including walking and cycling routes to schools.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_567
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_567

Wendy Morton:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of (a) the potential merits of the West Midlands Rail Hub and (b) the potential impact of the West Midlands Rail Hub on (i) economic growth and (ii) connectivity. \p Simon Lightwood: Midlands Rail Hub would unlock thousands of homes and drive economic growth, with better connections regionally and nationally, and more reliable trains. It will provide up to 300 extra trains a day into Birmingham while improving the performance of services. In December, the Chancellor launched the second stage of the Spending Review. This is a ‘zero-based’ review, to ensure every line of spending – including the transport infrastructure portfolio – delivers the Plan for Change and provides good value for taxpayers.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_568
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_568

Lisa Smart:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent discussions she has had with the National Cyber Security Centre on (a) preventing and (b) removing scam or impersonation websites that mimic (a) the DVLA and (b) government services. \p Lilian Greenwood: The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) advises customers to use GOV.UK as the official and only website when seeking information or completing applications. All DVLA literature directs customers to the official GOV.UK website. The DVLA also uses its external communication channels, including social media, to publish advice and to remind motorists that GOV.UK is the only website for government motoring services.

The DVLA investigates reports of organisations which act illegally or are actively misleading users about their services. Where appropriate such sites can be and are taken down promptly.

DVLA officials have regular discussions and briefings, with the National Cyber Security Centre, to assess and prevent a range of risks. The DVLA is also a longstanding user of the National Cyber Security Centre active cyber defence services and regularly uses the Netcraft takedown service for removing malicious websites.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_569
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_569

Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what the average age is of Great Western Railway's current fleet of rolling stock. \p Simon Lightwood: The average age of Great Western Railway’s (GWR) rolling stock is 15 years, as published on the Office of Rail and Road website as at 31 March 2024.

My officials receive regular updates on GWR’s train fleet. Detailed maintenance arrangements are a matter for GWR, its maintenance providers and the rolling stock owning companies. GWR works closely with its maintainers and the supply chain to source parts to maintain the trains as required.

The age of rolling stock is one of the factors that can impact on reliability and service quality. GWR and Network Rail have been working together to develop plans to replace ageing rolling stock with trains that will better meet the needs of passengers in the future. Any specific proposals are subject to both business case approval and funding being available.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_570
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_570

Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 21 March 2025 to Question 38040 on Roads: Hampshire, what the net increase in local authority road maintenance funding is in monetary cash terms in 2025-26 relative to the aggregation of the (a) HS2, (b) Network North and (c) other funding streams given to local authorities in 2024-25. \p Lilian Greenwood: In 2024/25, local highway authorities received a total of £1,067 million of capital funding for local highway maintenance from various funding streams including the Highways Maintenance Block “needs” element, Highways Maintenance Block “incentive” element, potholes funding, and the £150 million Network North funding uplift (which came from redirected HS2 funding).

In 2025/26, the Government is providing £1,567 million of capital funding for local highway maintenance, meaning that the net increase in cash terms is £500 million. Further detail is provided on page 94 of the Budget 2024 document, and the details of allocations to local highway authorities in each year are available on gov.uk.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_571
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_571

Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department plans to integrate (a) e-scooter and (b) e-bike infrastructure with rural bus services. \p Simon Lightwood: The Government aims to deliver an integrated transport system that reduces emissions, improves journeys, and gives people choice over how they travel, and we are carefully considering how shared micromobility and active travel schemes can help to deliver these objectives right across the country.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_572
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_572

Ben Maguire:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if her Department will meet with the hon. Member for North Cornwall to discuss the potential availability of funding to extend the Camel Trail cycle path. \p Simon Lightwood: I commend the honourable gentleman for his continued advocacy for the Camel Trail cycle path in his constituency. As he will be aware, officials from the Department for Transport attended our meeting on 1 April, and prior input was sought from Active Travel England.

Decisions on future funding for active travel will be a matter for the Spending Review, and it is for Cornwall Council to make its own decisions about where to prioritise investment in local transport networks, including walking and cycling infrastructure.
wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_573
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-28)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-28 conversation_573

Martin Wrigley:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 4 March 2025 to Question 34686 on Cars: Lighting, if the Department will make an assessment of the potential impact of LED headlight brightness on (a) older drivers, (b) cyclists, and (c) pedestrians. \p Lilian Greenwood: All types of road vehicle headlamps, including those using LED technology, are designed, tested and approved to internationally recognised standards to help prevent undue glare on a broad range of roads and environments.

Police recorded collision statistics in Great Britain do not show any discernible trend over time that would suggest an underlying road safety issue linked to advances in lighting technology.

However, Government recognises increased public concern around headlamp glare and, as noted in my answer to Question 34686, has commissioned independent research. This is measuring light levels experienced by drivers during real driving on UK roads and considers factors like vehicle characteristics, weather conditions and ambient lighting. It also includes a programme of stakeholder engagement to build a comprehensive understanding of the issues. Careful consideration will be given to that work when it reports later this year to determine what future actions may be appropriate to ensure the safety of all road users.