At the Transport Select Committee meeting on 24th April 2020 Greg questioned the Chief Executive of HS2 Ltd and the HS2 Minister at the Transport Select Committee.
The Chief Executive of HS2 Ltd, Mark Thurston, acknowledged that “people didn’t choose to live along the route” and assured Greg that “he will take his responsibilities seriously” on compensating residents, farmers and businesses. He also said that “significant failings of the past must not be repeated”. The onus is now on him to make this a reality and ensure the massive gap between words and what actually happens on the ground is narrowed.
In reference to PHE guidelines on social distancing, Mr Thurston stated that “if we can’t comply with guidelines we will shut our sites”. Along with fellow Buckinghamshire MPs, Greg will continue to hold HS2 Ltd accountable for all breaches of PHE guidelines that are reported to him. There can be no excuse for anyone, least of all HS2 Ltd and their contractors breaching the guidelines set out by the government for everyones safety.
Greg later questioned HS2 Minister Andrew Stephenson MP, questioning why the government issued notice to proceed for HS2 at a time when the future demand for rail is very uncertain following the COVID-19 lockdown. Also calling for the government to ensure local communities have a real say over design elements of the route if the project continues.
Greg will continue to do everything he can to represent Buckingham constituents on HS2 to the government and HS2 Ltd, holding them to account.