Midlands TUC welcomes announcement in favour of HS2

date: 10 January 2012

embargo: None

The Midlands TUC today (Tuesday) welcomed the governments long awaited confirmation that the HS2 link from London to Birmingham will be built.

Commenting on the decision, Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Rob Johnston said, 'HS2 will prove to be a huge boost the midlands economy. This is about investment in the future and shows the importance of government action to support regional economies.'

'We all know the midlands economy has been struggling, investments such as HS2 are essential if we are to rebuild and revitalise our region's industrial and manufacturing sectors.'

'This is good for jobs, good for business and good for growth.'

'But thousands of jobs in rail construction, renewals and maintenance are currently under threat from Sir Roy McNulty's proposals to cut staffing across the rail industry. If ministers are serious about delivering the rail infrastructure of the future, they must defend the jobs of these skilled and experienced workers who will be essential if HS2 is to become a reality.

'With government and cross party support secured, HS2 must be built in a way that maximises jobs and apprenticeships and delivers real benefits to passengers, communities and the environment.'

NOTES TO EDITORS:

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Contacts:

Media enquiries:

Rob Johnston, T: 0121 262 6383; M: 07879 497 291; E: rjohnston@tuc.org.uk

Alan Weaver, T: 0121 262 6383; M: 07771 778 694; E: aweaver@tuc.org.uk