Andy McDonald MP, Labour’s Shadow Transport
Secretary, commenting on Chris Grayling’s comments that the
full electrification of the Leeds to Manchester train line won’t go ahead,
said:
“This is a slap in the face for commuters
and businesses in the North.
"Just six weeks ago the Tories promised the
electrification of the Trans-Pennine route as an integral part of the
government’s ‘Northern Powerhouse’.
"For years the Tories have promised
electrification for the North, delivering faster, greener and more reliable
services along with the significant economic benefits brought about by improved
connectivity.
"The Tories have gone from Northern Powerhouse
to Northern Powercut! Another broken promise from a Government that’s hit the
buffers.
"Chris Grayling had to be forced to come to
parliament to give his HS2 statement and has sneaked this out in an interview
after the Commons has risen.
"Voters won’t be fooled by Grayling’s claim
that the same benefits will be realised without electrification.
"With our commitment to deliver a Crossrail
for the North, it’s clear only Labour has the ambition to transform the
economies of the North of England for the many not the few.”
Ends
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