The controversial high-speed train project HS2 has come under fire once again as it is revealed that its PR department consists of a staggering 167 staff, costing taxpayers £8 million annually. This includes a team of three individuals dedicated to "woke training" in the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion department, with an open vacancy for a fourth member.
Over-Bloated, Over-Budget, and Off the Rails
Critics of HS2 have not held back in their condemnation of the project, dubbing it "over-bloated, over-budget, and off the rails." The criticism comes as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak once again refrained from ruling out the possibility of scaling back the high-speed train initiative.
Dozens of Spin Doctors and Social Media Managers
A Freedom of Information request has revealed that HS2 Ltd employs more than a dozen spin doctors and five social media managers, all contributing to the hefty annual cost of the project's Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Directorate. Last year, the total budget for this department reached £8,086,998, slightly dropping to £7,889,489 this year.
Critics Raise Concerns
Buckingham MP Greg Smith voiced his frustration, stating, "HS2 have no respect for the taxpayers who fund them. Even with all these PR people, my constituents are still in the dark on road closures and other disruptions. HS2 Ltd is over-bloated, over-budget, and off the rails." This sentiment reflects the concerns of many who feel that the project is not delivering adequate value for money.
Engaging with Communities
HS2 Ltd maintains that community engagement is a crucial part of their parliamentary obligations, accounting for a significant portion of the PR department's costs. Insiders claim that 84 staff are dedicated to selling the project to affected locals.
Uncertainty Over Manchester Leg of HS2
The future of the Manchester leg of HS2 remains uncertain as the Conservative Party conference kicks off in Manchester. While Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove acknowledges the importance of the project, he emphasizes the need to reassess its value for money.
