LABOUR’s shadow rail minister Tan Deshi MP visited Basingstoke last week.

Speaking at an event organised by the Basingstoke Labour Party at Ridgeway Community Centre in Buckskin, Mr Dhesi said Basingstoke is a priority for Labour.

He said: “Basingstoke is a great town, with wonderful people.

“As shadow rail minister, and the MP for a nearby commuter town, I understand the importance of affordable and reliable rail services for a town's economic life.”

The Slough MP also promised that the Labour would provide nation “the services people deserve”.

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He added: “That's why Labour will nationalise our railways, ensure passengers needs are met and properly fund services, to give the people of Basingstoke, Slough and nationwide the services they deserve."

Basingstoke and Deane borough councillor Jacky Tustain, who is also the chair of Basingstoke Labour Party, said: “Getting public transport right for Basingstoke is vital to our town’s wellbeing. It is also a key part of moving towards a greener transport infrastructure. 

“I am very excited about Labour’s proposed railway policies, which will move us towards these goals. This national approach along with our local work on pushing for improvements will make using public transport a viable alternative for many in Basingstoke.”

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David Lawrence, Labour’s parliamentary candidate in Basingstoke, said: “So many people in Basingstoke rely on our rail services, and Basingstoke’s connectivity is part of what makes it such a fantastic, vibrant town.

“I am delighted that Labour’s shadow rail minister chose to come to Basingstoke to announce Labour’s plans to nationalise the railways, to ensure that all profits are reinvested in the network to benefit consumers, rather than line private investors’ profits.

“This will not only help passengers but help get our town’s economy back on track, especially as our town centre and commuter numbers are still struggling since the pandemic.”