Julian Welcomes Queen’s Speech
May 18, 2016
Julian has welcomed today’s Queen’s Speech, which includes legislation to boost broadband speeds, give local communities more control over planning, and to improve the nation’s transport infrastructure.
The York Outer MP has campaigned for many years to improve broadband speeds across rural areas around the outskirts of York. The Government’s Digital Economy Bill will deliver on its commitment to a Universal Service Obligation, giving all households access to fast broadband speeds. A new right will also be granted to customers so that they receive automatic compensation when their internet connection does not work properly.
The Modern Transport and Neighbourhood Planning and Infrastructure Bills were announced and are designed to reduce congestion and speed up journeys for road users. The legislation will strengthen neighbourhood planning and give local communities more power in planning decisions. An independent National Infrastructure Committee will also be established on a statutory basis.
Welcoming the proposals, Julian said “I am pleased that the Government is pressing ahead to ensuring that all households will have access to fast internet speeds. Residents on the outskirts of York should not be left behind.”
“The Government’s commitment to transport is good news for York and I will continue to do everything to ensure that our northern ring road gets the investment it needs. I look forward to working with the Council and local businesses to make representations to the National Infrastructure Committee for a dualled northern ring road to help ease our congestion issues.”
Proposals for legislation on guardianship of the property and affairs of missing people were sadly not included in today’s Queen’s Speech. Julian said that he was disappointed but would step up the campaign to ensure the Ministry of Justice delivers on its promise as soon as possible.
