Urgent question on Government review into the future of HS2

The Transport Secretary told MPs;

"I don't think there's any future in obscuring the cost benefits or timetable of HS2 so I announced on the 21 August an independent cross party review led by Douglas Oakervee into whether and how HS2 should or shouldn't proceed.

"The review will consider its affordability, its deliverability, benefits, scope, phasing including its relationship with Northern Powerhouse Rail. The Chair will be supported by a Deputy Chair, Lord Barclay and a panel of experts from business, academia and transport to ensure it is independent, thorough and objective in its assessment programme."

Responding on behalf of the Opposition, Shadow Transport Secretary, Andy McDonald said;

"I ask the Transport Secretary, when was his predecessor told that the figure of £55.7billion was not accurate or sustainable? And when was he first told that the timetable for delivery could not be adhered to? Mr Speaker, isn't this yet more evidence that this Government has totally failed to exercise any control over this project."

• Watch Parliament TV: Urgent Question on HS2
• Transcripts of proceedings in the House of Commons Chamber are available in Hansard online three hours after they happen.

Image: Anna-Gowthorpe

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