Written questions by Heylings.

What progress her Department has made on improving accessibility of railways; and (a) when and (b) how new projects will be identified under the Access for All funding scheme.

Since April 2024, step free upgrades at 13 stations have been completed, with a further 18 due to be completed by April 2025. This will be the most stations completed in one year since the programme started in 2006. This Government is committed to improving the accessibility of the railway and recognises the social and economic benefits this brings to communities. We will shortly provide an update to MPs and other stakeholders on our approach to the Access for All programme.

What steps she has taken to review the effectiveness of the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme for facilitating the travel of wheelchair users to education and work.

The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) provides free off-peak bus travel to those with eligible disabilities and those of state pension age, currently sixty-six. The ENCTS costs around £700 million annually and any changes to the statutory obligations would need to be carefully considered for its impact on the scheme’s financial sustainability. The Department has conducted a review of the ENCTS and we are considering next steps.

What assessment she has made of the potential impact of a third runway at Heathrow on the UK's carbon budget.

The government is committed to reaching net zero by 2050 and meeting our carbon budget obligations, as set out in the Climate Change Act. Making Britain a clean energy superpower and delivering greener transport, including aviation, is a Department for Transport priority. We have been clear that any airport expansion proposals will need to demonstrate they contribute to economic growth and can be delivered in line with the UK’s legally binding climate change commitments, as well as meeting strict air quality and noise standards. The government will set out detail on plans for meeting legislated carbon budgets later this year.

Whether she has had discussions with Whizz Kidz on their report entitled Beyond fare Equality through Concessionary Bus Travel; and if she will mandate free travel for disabled bus pass holders.

The Department regularly meets with stakeholders to discuss a range of issues but have had no such discussions with Whizz Kidz. The terms of the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme already mandate free off-peak bus travel for disabled bus pass holders.

What plans her Department has to continue funding for the Access for All programme.

The Government is committed to improving the accessibility of the railway and recognises the social and economic benefits this brings to communities. Since its launch in 2006, the Access for All (AfA) programme has delivered step free access at more than ...