Labour and Co-operative MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, Luke Pollard has criticised the Government’s announcement that the Great Western rail franchise that operates Plymouth’s train services could be split up.

Luke Pollard MP has said:

“This is the wrong approach from the Government. More fragmentation and privatisation isn’t what the railways needs. What  Plymouth needs is investment in reducing journey times and creating resilience from bad weather.”

“That is why Labour is backing and have pledged to fund the recommendations of the Peninsular Rail Taskforce. It’s time to ask why won’t the government back our region and match Labour’s funding commitment. Other regions are getting billions from this government, why can’t the far South West get our fair share?”

Speaking in the House of Commons today, Luke was able to ask, following Secretary of State Chris Grayling’s statement why his Department is focusing on this consultation, rather than following the recommendations of the Peninsula Rail Task Force.

Luke Pollard MP said:

“Fragmention of the Great Western Franchise risks locking in a poor deal for far South West. Will the Secretary of State take this opportunity now to match the commiment, given by the the Shadow Secretary of State for Transport, to fund the Peninsula Rail Task Force recommendations for faster journeys, for a more resilient railway and ensure they can unlock the investment that we need for Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall.”

Watch Luke’s question below