Michael Fabricant who has consistently voted against legislation for – and argued against – HS2 says “It’s now time to scrap what’s left of HS2.”

Michael adds:  “With tough decisions to be made on Thursday, the Chancellor of the Exchequer should reconsider his support of HS2.  It neither links with HS1 and the continent, as was the original intention, nor connects with mainline stations such as Birmingham New Street.  It stands disconnected and disjointed.

“Moreover, and importantly, the latest data show that the cost is now £155 billion, 121% over budget, and is running 12 years late.  It is a national disgrace.

“As a result of lock-down, more meetings are being held virtually and rail custom has fallen.  With the London to Midlands HS2 link now not due to be completed until the end of 2035 and the all important link to Manchester not due now until 2046, who can be assured that this rail service will be needed then?  I, and others, continue to press the Government to consider using these vast sums of money to support the NHS, education, and other services which our nation so needs instead of this failing project.”