During today’s debate on Rail Fares in Parliament, Tracey raised the concerns of her constituents in Chatham & Aylesford with the newly appointed Secretary of State for Transport at the first opportunity. In doing so, she has secured a meeting in the near future between herself, Kent MPs and the Secretary of State to discuss rail fares and Southeastern services.

Tracey asked the Secretary of State:

“The shadow Secretary of State was kind enough to quote accurately comments that I made to my local newspaper reflecting my constituents’ concern about rail fare increases. I said that I would continue to make representations on the matter. Rather than succumbing to the political opportunism displayed by the Opposition, who imposed RPI plus 3% uniquely on south-eastern commuters, will my right hon. Friend meet me, and fellow Kent Members, to engage in a substantive conversation about rail fares and services for our constituents?”

To which the Secretary of State replied:

“I should be delighted to meet my hon. Friend and the colleagues whom she wishes to bring to see me. As I have said, a huge number of people rely on commuting, particularly in areas such as Kent, and that is very expensive for them. I shall be more than happy to arrange a meeting in the not-too-distant future.”