Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen Slams HS2 as a "White Elephant"

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen has voiced his support for Chancellor Rishi Sunak's plan to abandon the Manchester leg of HS2, describing the multi-billion pound project as a wasteful endeavor. Speaking at the Tory Party Conference in Manchester, Houchen argued that taxpayers' money could be better allocated elsewhere.

Houchen Claims Money Could be Better Spent on Other Priorities

Houchen expressed his skepticism towards HS2 in an interview with the BBC, stating, "I think HS2 is a white elephant. I think that money could be better spent on other things. A project that was supposed to cost £32bn is now costing £180bn. People in the North of England that I represent would suggest that the funds could be put to better use for priorities that directly impact their daily lives."

Rishi Sunak Acknowledges Escalating Costs of HS2

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has echoed concerns over the escalating costs of HS2 and the need for careful consideration. In an interview with Times Radio, Sunak stated, "It's clear that the costs of this program have escalated far beyond what anyone thought at the beginning." Sunak emphasized the importance of examining the details before making a decision, as the significant sums involved are taxpayers' money.

PM to Confirm Plans for HS2 Tomorrow

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to make a definitive announcement about the future of HS2 during his conference speech tomorrow. Amidst the ongoing debate and confusion surrounding the project, Johnson is anticipated to reveal his intentions to invest the £36bn allocated for the construction of HS2 from Birmingham to Manchester into regional transportation connections in the Midlands and North. This crucial address will be a pivotal moment for both the Prime Minister and Chancellor Sunak, as it will shape their agenda and potential outcome in the upcoming general election.