Despite previously opposing the move in the House of Lords, the
Government have today accepted a Labour amendment to the HS2 Bill
which will give towns and villages in Shropshire, Staffordshire
and Cheshire a say over transport links.
Labour’s amendment was opposed by Tory Peers back in November but
the Government today accepted the move to prevent a vote of MPs
and potential rebellion.
Labour’s win will force the Government to launch a landmark
transport consultation with the residents of Shropshire,
Staffordshire and Cheshire, as part of the HS2 process, meaning
that residents will have a say about whether the Government
should be delivering more local transport links, as well as how
disruption from the works can be minimised.
Speaking ahead of the debate on Lords amendments to the HS2 Bill,
, Labour’s
Shadow Rail Minister, said:
“The Government must invest in developing rail capacity,
including high speed rail, to better connect our towns and
cities. But it is failing with its management of the HS2 project
and failing to listen to local residents.
“It is welcome that ministers agree with Labour that the people
of Shropshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire need a say over
transport in their towns and villages. This must mark the start
of the Government working with local people and delivering on
their promises.”
Ends
Notes to editors:
1. On Tuesday 19th January, the House of Commons will debate
Lords amendments to the HS2 Bill – including an amendment by
Labour frontbencher which was
approved by the Lords on 30th November 2020.
2. The amendment would force the Government to consult the people
of Shropshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire about both the impact
of the works, and whether there should be new transport
investment in the county. The amendment has an ‘action guarantee’
to ensure that a Government Minister must come to Parliament and
explain how they will deliver what the people have told them in
the consultation.
3. Despite previously opposing the amendment, the Government
accepted the amendment at the last minute, which will now
kick-off a process that could have seen new investment and
infrastructure across the counties.
4. The full text of the amendment is available at amendment three
here.
5. Labour fully supports HS2 to develop rail capacity, help
address the climate crisis and better connect our towns and
cities. However, improved governance of railway expansion is
needed, not least over HS2.
