Project Redwood: Evidence PM planned to scrap new HS2 line

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The Government's proposal to scrap the second phase of HS2 has been given its own special code name - but Number 10 is now reconsidering the plan after being 'scared' by the negative reaction from The Independent's revelations.

It can be revealed that secret documents – titled 'Project Redwood' – outlining the cost benefits of abandoning the Birmingham-Manchester section of the rail project were drawn up for a face-to-face meeting between Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunt last week.

Although £2.3 billion has already been spent on the second phase of construction, the Redwood solution suggested that £34 billion would be saved by abandoning any future projects. plans.

The Independentunderstands that the Prime Minister and Chancellor were both in favor of abandoning these plans as Mr Hunt struggles to find savings before his autumn mini-budget statement in November. But a source close to the discussions said both men were left "with cold feet" after the furious reaction - northern mayors, chiefs business and Tory MPs warning it would cost the party votes in the general election. “There is a degree of listening after the backlash,” said another source close to the delivery of HS2 to The Independent. “They are speaking out about their concerns. They should know that this makes no political sense and that total cancellation seems difficult to achieve. »

The Independent understands that several Conservative MPs have clearly expressed their frustration with the Conservative whips. “It’s not just the usual suspects. There are loyal MPs who have concerns," one source said.

A senior Conservative MP, whose constituency is in the north of England, said: "There are will have an uproar if the project is not fully implemented. in Manchester. We cannot afford another issue where the opposition and others are up in arms. »

However, some Conservatives in southern seats are not opposed to abandoning the rest of HS2. And some on the conservative right – like John Redwood – want to eliminate it to create room for tax cuts. However,The Independentunderstands that “Project Redwood” is not named after the MP.