Government ‘fully supports’ HS2

THE Prime Minister has insisted that she remains ‘fully committed’ to HS2, after a Channel 4 documentary claimed that ministers are seeking to cancel the project, or at least restrict it to Phase 1, which is the London to Birmingham section.

A spokesman at No 10 Downing Street said: ‘The PM remains fully committed to HS2. HS2 is working with its supply chain to ensure this essential project is delivered within the budget set by government.’

The announcement has been welcomed by the Railway Industry Association, whose chief executive Darren Caplan said: ‘The Railway Industry Association welcomes comments made by the Prime Minister’s spokesman, that Theresa May remains fully committed to HS2, and that HS2 is working with its supply chain to ensure this essential project is delivered within the budget set by government.

‘HS2 is an exciting project which is making strong progress, with over £6.5 billion of construction contracts already awarded for Phase 1 of the project – from London to the West Midlands – with more contracts to come over the next few years. The Bill for Phase 2a – West Midlands to Crewe – is moving at pace through Parliament too. And the Bill for Phase 2b – West Midlands to Leeds and Crewe to Manchester – will follow in due course.

‘HS2 is happening. The focus now needs to be on working to ensure we deliver this world-class project, to the benefit of the UK economy, passengers and freight users, taxpayers, and ultimately communities who will see greatly enhanced connectivity to all parts of the UK.’

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