Speeches by Shanker.

“You touched on resources being a big challenge, and resources in the right place to make sure enforcement is effective. Going back to our friends in Wolverhampton for a second again, they have built up a huge surplus with the fees that they have been getting. They could probably tackle that resource issue by taking on …”

“Finally, regarding some work around setting national standards and national baselines for enforcement standards and requirements, things like data sharing, joint operations, public reporting and access to data: are they the sorts of things that are being looked at?”

“It could do a lot more. Other authorities will say they do not see enough of its enforcement officers, yet they have lots of drivers licensed by Wolverhampton.”

“Does the Department have a plan on how this can be tackled going forward?”

“On traditional operators versus apps, does the Department believe that the current licensing conditions treat app-based platforms and traditional operators fairly, or does one face looser requirements than the other?”

“What is the Department’s view of the current effectiveness of enforcement around accessibility legislation and duties?”

“Many constituents tell me how fed up they are with the long waiting times for driving tests. By the time they secure a practical test, their theory certificate has expired, forcing them to pay again. What steps will the Minister take to help people who cannot afford to pay for another test?”

“Every parking fine from rip-off private operators hurts drivers and our city centres, and Derby is no exception. Last October, Jumpin Fun play centre closed its doors for good because families could not trust that they would be treated fairly at the nearby Copeland Street car park. I welcome the Government’s recent con…”

“Okay—then how?”

“The Bill makes provision for the passenger watchdog to set standards on behalf of passengers. Can someone confirm that these standards will be enforceable as a licence condition?”

“Brilliant. It also specifies that these can include standards on accessibility complaints, information and compensation. Is this an exhaustive list? Do we expect the watchdog to set standards in other areas as well?”

“Hopefully the answer to this question is yes: will the arrangements set out in this Bill result in more regular and effective enforcement action against any breaches of accessibility obligations?”

“You touched on the PSED a moment ago. The Bill will make GBR subject to the public sector equality duty; why does the Bill not also make GBR subject to the specific duties under PSED? Is there any intention to do that? There is no specific mention at this stage.”

“But on the specific duties, will you come back to us?”

“When do you think we will know a little more about size?”

“Thank you. On that, the impact assessment for the Bill states that the Department has included an equalities impact assessment. Why has that not been published and when will it be published?”

“The crux of the matter is whether passengers can reasonably expect fares to be cheaper and more affordable under GBR.”

“You will know where I am coming from with this question. Closely linked to the structure of an organisation is how it will operate, and how it operates is obviously linked to where it will operate. Successive Ministers, Secretaries of State and, indeed, Governments have committed to Great British Railways being headqua…”

“Everyone deserves a warm and safe place to call home, but for the 20% of families in Derby South who live in fuel poverty this week’s cold snap is a nightmare as they struggle to heat their homes. What longer-term plans are being made so that families can see the benefits of a Labour Government and do not dread this so…”

“11. What steps he is taking to help tackle fuel poverty.”