Andrew Bridgen questions the Government on improving the midland main line and reopening the Ivanhoe line through North West Leicestershire.
Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Ind)
Can the Minister confirm what plans he has for improving the midland main line and reopening the Ivanhoe line through North West Leicestershire? Has his Department done a cost-benefit analysis of full electrification of the midlands main line, and how does he think that might compare with the cost-benefits of the eastern leg of HS2, which is set to run from Birmingham to East Midlands Parkway?
The Minister of State, Department for Transport (Huw Merriman)
The hon. Member makes the point and it is important that we link those projects together so that the full benefits of HS2 drive the enhancements we make to the existing railway, and indeed vice versa. I am happy to write to him to set out further details with regard to the projects he has mentioned.