Strong backing for HS2

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin has said he hopes to see construction begin on Britain’s new high-speed rail network in 2017 after the HS2 hybrid bill was passed in the Commons.

MPs voted 452 to 41 in favour of the bill during its second reading yesterday (April 28).

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: “By voting in favour of the hybrid Bill, Parliament has made a clear commitment to a key part of the government’s long term economic plan. HS2 is a once in a generation opportunity to create jobs and develop skills, provide the extra space we need on our rail network for commuters and freight and better connect our biggest cities.

“I am aware of the concerns some who live very close to the HS2 route have. I am ‎confident however that by working together we can ensure this vital new north-south railway is designed in the right way, and we will have spades in the ground in 2017 as planned.”