In a bold move, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced the cancellation of the Manchester leg of HS2 during his speech at the Tory Conference. Sunak stated that the multi-billion pound rail project is no longer suitable and that taxpayers' money would be better spent on other projects.
New Investment in "Network North"
The £36bn allocated for the Manchester leg of HS2 will now be invested in "Network North". This new investment will fund numerous projects to develop and upgrade transportation across the North and Midlands, including road and rail connections, as well as bus and train services.
Improved Connectivity
With this new investment, over 50 different stations across the North and Midlands, including Manchester and Liverpool, will be connected. Additionally, upgrades will be carried out throughout Britain's highway network.
Changes to Business Travel and the Economic Case for HS2
Sunak justified the cancellation of the Manchester leg of HS2 by highlighting the changing nature of business travel post-Covid. He argued that the economic case for HS2 has weakened significantly, as the project has experienced significant cost increases and repeated delays. Sunak questioned the necessity of a project that is not scheduled to reach Manchester for almost two decades.
New Developments and Smoking Ban
Alongside the investment in transportation infrastructure, a new Development Zone will be created in Euston. This zone will facilitate the construction of thousands of new homes and provide opportunities for new businesses.
In addition to the infrastructure investments, Sunak announced his intention to ban young people from smoking. This ban will mean that a 14-year-old today will never be able to legally purchase cigarettes. Sunak justified this decision by highlighting the high cost of smoking to the country, estimated at £17bn per year.
Relations with BMA Doctors and Plans for the Economy
In a direct rebuke of striking BMA doctors, Sunak accused them of demanding unaffordable pay rises and engaging in strike action for political, rather than patient, reasons.
On the topic of the economy, Sunak promised to deliver tax cuts but did not specify when they would be implemented. He stressed the need for inflation to decrease and the cost of living to ease first.
Criticism of Labour and Brexit
Sunak took the opportunity to launch a scathing attack on Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, calling him a "walking definition of the 30-year political status quo". Sunak accused Starmer of wanting to drag Britain back under Brussels rules and argued that Labour does not support the concept of Westminster taking back control.
A Personal Touch
Prior to his speech, PM Boris Johnson's wife, Akshata Murty, surprised conference attendees with a heartfelt speech about her relationship with the Prime Minister. Describing Johnson's strength of character, integrity, and zest for life, she brought a personal touch to the conference.
