Petition to stop HS2 is being debated by MPs tonight
Parliament will be discussing the appeal to stop work on HS2 and hold a vote to review its legislation
Last updated 13th Sep 2021
MPs will debate the HS2 high speed rail project in Westminster today, which could mean that all work is stopped and the project reviewed
A petition for the debate and vote on reviewing the project's legislation was signed by 155,252 people, if the legislation is repealed, building works will have to be put on hold.
The debate will take place from 6pm tonight and will be led by Petitions Committee member Taiwo Owatemi MP, but all MPs will be able to take part.
Campaigners argue HS2 is bad for the environment and the economy
Campaigners are concerned about the impact that it is having on the environment, and are also arguing that it is also damaging the economy.
As stated in the petition on the parliament's website, the petition said:
'HS2 is destroying nature and inflicting suffering on businesses and property owners. Government is investing in an inept and recklessly run project, offering poor value for money. HS2 will not reach Net Zero by 2050 nor help us level up the North.'
It was also noted that the impact of coronavirus means action should be taken sooner. It was also stated:
'The pandemic has changed how we work forever and invalidated the business case. Given the climate emergencies we face, and now the economic and pandemic crises - Parliament must vote to repeal the legislation.'
The government's response to the HS2 debate
The Government has so far responded by stating:
'HS2 will provide essential North-South connectivity, greater capacity and shorter journey times. This railway will play a vital role in delivering the Government’s carbon net zero objectives.'
Protestors back the vote
Mark Keir who was protesting HS2 last week wants to see action from MPs in the debate today. He said:
"We were always told that there would never be another debate about HS2 but popular pressure has put paid to that idea." He added:
"We need MPs to be properly informed on how people feel. Over 80% of people have been saying they do not want HS2 and it's high time Parliament paid attention."