High Speed Rail 2 2022-06-29
2022-06-29
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises following a confidence vote in the Prime Minister and concerns the effect of High Speed Rail 2 (HS2) on Scotland, with recent discussions between the Secretary of State for Transport.
What recent discussions have you had with the Secretary of State for Transport about the impact of High Speed Rail 2 on Scotland? On the day of a confidence vote in the Prime Minister, the Government announced that the HS2 Golborne link connecting Glasgow and north-west England had been scrapped. How can you say Scotland will benefit from HS2 when the Government is secretly trying to get rid of lines linking the north of England with Scotland?
Scotland will benefit from increased connectivity and economic benefits brought by HS2. The Golborne link was removed due to Sir Peter Hendy's review, which found it not optimal for addressing capacity constraints between Crewe and Preston. We are exploring better options and remain committed to HS2 as a means to enhance transport connectivity and environmental sustainability.
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Assessment & feedback
The cancellation of the Golborne link and its impact on Scotland's connectivity and economic benefits were not directly addressed with specific plans or commitments.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The question follows a previous discussion about HS2 and the cancellation of the Golborne link, raising concerns about how these changes affect Scotland's connectivity with England.
How can you say that Scotland will benefit from connecting to HS2 when the Government is secretly trying to get rid of lines linking the north of England with Scotland and reducing overall UK connectivity?
The removal of the Golborne link was due to Sir Peter Hendy's review, which concluded it wasn't the best way to address capacity issues. However, we are examining alternative options and remain committed to enhancing connectivity between Scotland and England through HS2.
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Assessment & feedback
The cancellation of the Golborne link's impact on Scottish economic benefits was not directly addressed with specific plans or commitments.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Construction of HS2 is causing significant disruption in areas like Lichfield, raising questions about the broader impact and benefits of such projects.
Given disruptions caused by HS2 construction in Lichfield, with tonnes of soil moved and roads closed, might we help Scotland by giving them our bit of HS2?
While my hon. Friend is a vocal opponent of HS2, I am open to discussions on optimising the construction process and its overall benefits for transforming economic potential across the country.
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Assessment & feedback
The practical proposal was not addressed; instead, the answer shifted towards general support for HS2's benefits without discussing local disruptions or Scottish connectivity.
Doughty Campaigner Against Hs2
Had That Debate
Response accuracy