The Transport Select Committee held a hearing with the Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP, Secretary of State for Transport, to discuss the Department for Transport’s response to the Coronavirus pandemic. High Peak MP Robert Largan used this opportunity to question the Transport Secretary directly.

Cycling and walking, car usage, bus routes, aviation and rail were all addressed during a wide-ranging discussion. This included the consequences of the lockdown and the ongoing easing of restrictions. 

Robert highlighted the need to support local bus services and adjust timetables in order to support the night-time economy, including pubs and restaurants as they begin to reopen next month. 

The High Peak MP also urged the Government to take a hard-headed approach when it comes to negotiating with the Mayor of London. Transport for London is in dire straits financially, partly due to the current crisis, but also due to political decisions taken by the Mayor of London.

Robert Largan MP commented:

“It is good news that shops and high streets across the High Peak are starting to reopen. Public transport has to adapt to the easing of the lockdown, and High Peak residents would benefit enormously from more frequent local bus services to reflect this change.

“Taxpayers in the High Peak and across the UK also need protecting from the financial recklessness of the London Mayor. London already receives far too much public funding compared to the rest of the country, and it is time for the North to get its fair share of public infrastructure investment.”