3. Statement by the Minister for Economy, Transport and North Wales: Burns Recommendations — Next Steps

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:48 pm on 8 December 2020.

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Photo of Ken Skates Ken Skates Labour 3:48, 8 December 2020

Could I thank Mark Reckless and say that the latter is correct? Those additional services are designed to address the needs and existing demand within the Newport city area. But also, as the report makes clear, in terms of the summary, we would wish to see increased services across the border. Much of the report is actually dedicated to cross-border transport and makes recommendations concerning improved provision of rail services between south-east Wales and the south-west of England and, indeed, the south-east of England. In terms of the proposal for a joint project team, well, the delivery unit is a joint project team, currently comprising of Welsh Government, Transport for Wales and the local authorities. But, of course, given the significant role that Network Rail and the UK Government will play in this, then the door would certainly be open to participation by them in such a delivery unit to make sure that that investment that is so urgently required in terms of rail infrastructure in south-east Wales is delivered as soon as possible. So, I’d very much welcome their early participation in such a unit, and this is something that I'll be raising again with Ministers later this week.