The Rwanda Scheme (legislation that allows the Government the right to deport people immediately they arrive in the UK via an illegal route) began its passage through Parliament this week. In all the debate and commentary surrounding the scheme for much of the year, two primary points have been overlooked. First, that the intention is not to send scores of migrants to Rwanda for processing to see if their claim is genuine. The intention is to create a meaningful deterrent to stop people paying criminals money (that funds organised crime) to set foot on dangerous boats and risk their lives crossing the Channel. The second is to ease the pressure on the immigration system so that genuine asylum seekers are processed in a timely manner and can access good facilities in the meantime. Currently, the numbers of migrants put such pressure on the system that it is not possible to process their claims properly. There is no doubt in my mind that the current situation is not acceptable and decisive action is needed quickly. Once the illegal routes are closed the legislation includes an amendment that requires the Government to create more safe routes for genuine asylum seekers. The UK and all Governments over decades have demonstrated that we take our responsibilities seriously and welcome genuine asylum seekers.
The past week on the trains has not exactly endeared people to train travel. Several journeys were impacted by flooding on the track -my journey on Monday was 12 hours door-to-door rather than the usual 6. Also, the train drivers strike left people unable to make journeys or get to their intended destination. However, it is worth remembering that investment in the rail network, stations and rolling stock in the past decade exceeds every decade since the rail was first built. For example, track improvements and investment in bullet trains has led to shorter journey times and 1/2 million additional seats on the route between Penzance and Paddington. Most stations have been upgraded and connections to other routes made easier and the information available to passengers is greatly enhanced. And finally, any delay beyond 15 minutes triggers the delay repay compensation which provides some consolation to delayed customers.
Investment in public transport doesn’t stop there. Unprecedented investment to increase the availability, capacity, reliability and comfort on our buses and the £2-a-bus fare makes journeys much more attractive and affordable. Additional £23.5 Government funding for Cornwall’s public transport has helped introduce cheaper fares, contactless payment and through ticketing across both operators which has made using public transport much more accessible. I’m also working on other transport matters. Residents are fed up of speeding traffic and congestion in some community centres such as Newlyn, Crowlas, Ludgvan, Long Rock, Breage and Ashton. HGVs present a problem in areas especially during school run time and, in the New Year, the head of transport at Cornwall Council is visiting me to discuss where transport plans need to be designed and implemented! Do let me know if this is an issue of interest.
