Peter Aldous seeks assurances from the Government on its commitment to invest in Ely and Haughley rail junctions which will have significant levelling-up benefits across East Anglia, improving services for both freight and passengers, and help achieve decarbonisation targets.
Peter Aldous (Waveney) (Con)
T5. Leading on from my hon. Friend the Member for Clacton (Giles Watling), is my hon. Friend aware of the growing alarm across East Anglia about whether the Government’s long-term commitment to invest in Ely and Haughley junctions will be fulfilled? That improvement to the rail network will have significant levelling-up benefits across East Anglia and beyond, improve services for both freight and passengers, and help achieve our legally binding decarbonisation targets. Will she confirm that the rail network enhancements pipeline will prioritise this much needed investment? (900802)
Wendy Morton (The Minister of State, Department for Transport)
My hon. Friend has previously raised the issue of Haughley and Ely junctions with me. We remain committed to publishing the RNEP update, which has been delayed by the need to take account of the impacts of the pandemic and the spending review. However, I want to be in a position where we can provide as much clarity and certainty as possible. We will set out our plans shortly.