Baroness Wilcox of Newport (Lab)

My Lords, I am grateful for the gracious Speech and for the opportunity to reflect on its implications for transport across our United Kingdom. I also pay tribute to the House of Lords Library for its excellent preparatory work. Transport is not just about infrastructure; it is about opportunity, connectivity and fairness. It determines whether people can access work, education, healthcare and community life—and nowhere is that more important than in my homeland of Wales. The King’s Speech sets out an ambitious programme of change. The task is now for this ambition to translate into communities across the United Kingdom. For the public, what matters is simple: not what is promised, but what actually improves their daily journey. Let me begin with the Railways Bill and the creation of Great British Railways. The intention to simplify a fragmented system is welcome, and the case for change is clear. But success will not be judged by structure but by outcomes. Passengers in my native south Wales will rightly ask: will services be more reliable? Will journeys be quicker? Will connections improve? Change must be measured in punctual trains, better connections and shorter journey times—not in organisational charts. It is vital that these changes work for every part of the United Kingdom. That means genuine partnership with the nations and regions and ensuring that investment is fairly balanced—which has not always happened in the past. If this is truly a national railway, it must deliver for every nation—not just some parts. On road safety, the Government’s proposals have the potential to make a real difference, and measures that save lives must always be supported, as we have seen in the 20mph rollout in Wales. However, we must recognise the realities faced in many communities. In rural Wales, driving is not optional—it is essential. Change must therefore be proportionate, protecting safety while maintaining independence, particularly for older people in our communities. I welcome the Government’s intention to address micromobility. In cities such as Newport and Cardiff, e-scooters and similar devices are already well in use, so clear, balanced regulation is needed to support sustainable transport while maintaining public safety. Similarly, modernising the law on powered mobility devices is both necessary and timely. For many people, these are important and vital to maintaining independence. What links all these issues is the need for integration. Transport policy must work as a system and not in silos. In Wales, that means better co-ordination between rail and bus services so that there are seamless journeys. It means recognising the importance of cross-border travel, particularly between south Wales and the west of England. More people move between Cardiff, Newport and Bristol every day than between Liverpool and Manchester. Connectivity therefore does not stop at borders—and nor should transport policy. The real test is not whether we change the system but whether we improve the services. This House has an important role in ensuring that ambition is matched by accountability. Through careful scrutiny, we can help ensure that these proposals achieve their full potential. Above all, we must keep our focus on the people who rely on these systems every day—the commuter, the business owner, the rural resident. For them, transport is not abstract; it is essential. I look forward to working constructively with colleagues to support our Government’s reforms and to ensure that they deliver real and lasting improvements across Wales and across the United Kingdom.