Critics have lambasted Tory ministers for including funding for rail links in the South as part of the government’s “Network North” transport pledge, suggesting they need geography lessons.
The £36 billion investment in northern transport links, announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak following the cancellation of the HS2’s Birmingham-Manchester leg, has faced scrutiny after an official document on the “Network North” scheme revealed plans extending as far south as Devon, alongside commitments in the North and Midlands.
During a session in the House of Lords, former Labour Cabinet minister Baroness Taylor of Bolton questioned the geographical accuracy of the pledge, prompting Transport minister Lord Davies of Gower to defend the plan, asserting his qualifications in geography.
Peers raised concerns over the allocation of funds, with Labour peer Lord Grocott questioning how a scheme titled “Network North” could include proposals for a new station in Tavistock, located in the South West.
Criticism was also directed at the government’s £8.3 billion investment to repair potholes across the country, as it was revealed that a significant portion of the funds was earmarked for councils in the South of England, leading to accusations of neglecting the North and Midlands.
In response, Lord Davies reiterated the government’s commitment to reinvesting funds from HS2 into their respective regions, citing key rail improvements in the North. However, the inclusion of southern projects in the “Network North” plan continues to draw skepticism.
The controversy comes after the Conservative Party faced ridicule for promoting London road improvements as part of the “Network North” scheme, prompting criticism from northern mayors who felt sidelined by the announcement.
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