Rail bosses from HS2, the high-speed railway project in the UK, are facing criticism for spending money on an inclusivity document that includes coaching lessons on "unconscious bias". The document, titled "Equality, Diversity and Inclusion", has raised concerns about the project's escalating costs.

Tory MP accuses HS2 chiefs of wasting public money

Tory MP Greg Smith, who sits on the Transport Select Committee, has accused HS2 chiefs of taking the public for "mugs". He criticized the railway project for going massively over budget and using taxpayer money to promote "woke" ideology. Smith's comments reflect growing concerns about the financial management of HS2.

PM Rishi Sunak considers cancelling part of the project

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is reportedly alarmed by the escalating costs of the HS2 project and is contemplating canceling a portion of it. With public scrutiny over the project's expenses, Sunak is considering whether it is worth moving forward with the entire project.

Training sessions on conscious inclusion and bullying

Amidst the financial controversy, HS2 staff have undergone training sessions on conscious inclusion and bullying. The purpose of these sessions, according to the document, is to promote internal conversations and a better understanding of unconscious bias. HS2 claims that such initiatives create a safe and supportive working environment.

HS2 bosses deliver inclusive leadership workshop

The document also highlights HS2 bosses' efforts to promote inclusive leadership. The organization recently conducted a workshop for its top sixty technical leaders, aimed at fostering inclusivity within the leadership team.

LGBTQ+ representation at HS2

In addition to inclusivity training, HS2 bosses have been counting the number of LGBTQ+ staff. The document reveals that approximately four percent of workers identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, or questioning (LGBTQ+). Furthermore, eight percent of bosses involved in Phase 2 of the project identify as LGBTQ+.

Higher cost estimates fuel criticism

Lord Berkeley, a Labour peer and former member of a government review on the HS2 project, claims that the full cost of HS2 is closer to £180 billion. The controversy surrounding the project's financial management is further intensified by these higher cost estimates.

HS2 Ltd, the company responsible for the project, has defended its inclusivity efforts, stating that it is crucial to establish high standards to ensure a safe and supportive work environment for all employees.