You have to analyse the game, the problems and then you have to move forward, but also give solutions for the problems. The team is moving forward, but yes, we had to make adjustments as well. Yeah, there were shortages in our game definitely, but i think also, there were positive points. At the end of the day, its only about results and we didnt get a result when we were looking for it. Arsenal are currently top of group b after their return to the competition after six years away. Theyre in france to play lens, who havent hosted a Champions League game in 21 years. Arsenals flight yesterday was delayed by five hours because of bad weather. But bukayo saka has travelled despite limping off injured in the win at bournemouth at he weekend. To matters in the Premier League now. After losing their first four league games of the season luton may well have also turned a corner. They travel to burnley in the Premier League this evening on the back of a memorable 2 1 victory at everton at the weekend. Mark selby beat his chinese opponent for frames to one, also wins for judd trump and john higgins. Cable and is out of. Bolter at the bottom of the screen had her opportunities and was serving her set sweeting five games to four, but ended up losing the first set 7 5, and the second 7 6. She will face Jasmine Paolini for a place in the quarterfinals. Jersey reds� Premiership Rugby cup game against Ealing Trailfinders on friday has been cancelled after the Channel Islands club ceased trading last week. The championship sides were due to meet in the fifth round of fixtures, but the game is off after an investor pulled out of a funding deal to save the reds, apparently because of uncertainty over the future of the second tier of english rugby. Up to 70 players, coaches and support staff have been affected, although a private sponsor has since come in to cover the clubs september wages. To gymnastics now and the World Championships at which the first medals will be won in belgium later on tuesday. Max whitlock is a part of the Great Britain team in antwerp, as he marks his return to the sport. The three time Olympic Champion took time off after tokyo, where he won pommel horse gold. But says the decision to step away is one he has benefited from. My love for the sport has come back i suppose even more than it was before tokyo, which is nice, i have returned with almost a refreshed feeling almost like a younger version of myself, back where i was competing years and years ago, which is nice. So i think that has been really nice. But i think, yes, there is huge positives coming back and one thing particularly as gymnastics gives me such a real sense of purpose. Max whitlock there. And thats all the sport for now. Now its time for your questions answered. Welcome back to bbc news. And now, were going to take some time to answer your questions about the hs2 rail link. Its one of the biggest single uk Infrastructure Projects ever planned and, if everything had gone as originally hoped, it would have run from london, via birmingham, on separate legs to manchester and leeds. But the line to leeds has already been scrapped, and now there are Big Questions over whether the leg from birmingham to manchester will also be cancelled or delayed in the face of rising costs. Many voices, including several within the conservatives, say that pulling the plug on the project would paint the uk in a very bad light. The question has become a theme at the conservative Party Conference but the Prime Minister is maintaining that no decision has yet been made. I know theres a lot of speculation on this, but what i can say is ill approach this the same way i approach everything thoughtfully, carefully, across the detail, and making what i believe is the right decision in the long term for our country. So, no decision yet. Hs2 or high speed 2, to give it its full name was first announced in 2009, thats six years before mr sunak was first elected as an mp. So what are the pros and cons . Well, put simply, many of those who back the project, say that pullling the plug would send the world the message that the uk isnt a reliable place to make investments. And several politicians in the north of england say it would be a slap in the face for any levelling up plans, to spend billions improving links from the midlands to the south east and leave their region out. The main argument against its all to do with money. Costs have spirralled. And with the uk currently facing its highest taxes on record, the argument is being made that funds could be used elsewhere. Youve been sending us your questions, and weve assembled a panel of experts to provide the answers. With me now are lois norris, a barrister who lives In Manchester and regularly commutes by rail from there to birmingham and beyond. Jeremy acklam is a Transport Expert with the institution of engineering and technology. And theo leggett, our Business Reporter who covers all modes of transport for us. Thanks to all of you for being here with us. Lets get through as many questions in the next half hour as we can. Lets start with sylvia, In Manchester, whos contacted to say, why is it taking so long for the leg to manchester to get under way when construction between london and birmingham started a while ago . Lois, to you first of all, because you use this rail network all the time is that a question you regularly asked, as well . Time is that a question you regularly asked, as well . Yes, it sometimes regularly asked, as well . Yes, it sometimes feel regularly asked, as well . Yes, it sometimes feel like regularly asked, as well . Yes, it sometimes feel like we regularly asked, as well . Yes, it sometimes feel like we wish regularly asked, as well . Yes, it sometimes feel like we wish it i regularly asked, as well . Yes, it sometimes feel like we wish it would be here tomorrow. But i think in fairness to the scheme, manchester was the last leg to be built, first one to go, sadly. So although it feels like its a long time away in the future, i think thats one of the future, i think thats one of the points for me. Rishi sunak said today he would be thinking about it in the long term, but i dont think it was scheduled to take place at the manchester part until 2030 or after that. So it does feel a long time, but its an important investment for our future, time, but its an important investment for ourfuture, i time, but its an important investment for our future, i think. Jeremy, can i put the same question to you, why has it taken so long . 0ne to you, why has it taken so long . One of the reasons the whole project is taking one of the reasons the whole project is taking a one of the reasons the whole project is taking a long time in the uk, when is taking a long time in the uk, when compared to other lines in china when compared to other lines in china and when compared to other lines in china and france, is because we have a very china and france, is because we have a very crowded country. We have a lot of a very crowded country. We have a lot of land. A very crowded country. We have a lot of land. A a very crowded country. We have a lot of land, a lot of buildings that will get lot of land, a lot of buildings that will get in lot of land, a lot of buildings that will get in the way. You cant simply will get in the way. You cant simply not peoples houses downjust at a whim simply not peoples houses downjust at a whim. You have to go through a careful at a whim. You have to go through a careful Planning Process and it takes careful Planning Process and it takes time, thats why its complex in the takes time, thats why its complex in the uk takes time, thats why its complex in the uk. But with the right vision and meet in the uk. But with the right vision and project management, you can deliver and project management, you can deliver that, and project management, you can deliverthat, itjust and project management, you can deliver that, itjust takes and project management, you can deliver that, it just takes a while longen deliver that, it ust takes a while loner. , longer. Turning to the next question. Longer. Turning to the next question, because longer. Turning to the next question, because it longer. Turning to the next question, because it cuts l longer. Turning to the next| question, because it cuts to longer. Turning to the next question, because it cuts to the core of the political argument, mick has contacted to say, why has the cost of the project risen so sharply . It seems to be ahead of inflation for several years. So thatis inflation for several years. So that is a really key question. Theo, to you first, what are the official explanations . To you first, what are the official mentions . To you first, what are the official explanations . Lets put this into a bit of a context. Explanations . Lets put this into a bit of a context. When explanations . Lets put this into a bit of a context. When the explanations . Lets put this into a bit of a context. When the line bit of a context. When the line was first conceived bit of a context. When the line was first conceived back bit of a context. When the line was first conceived back in bit of a context. When the line was first conceived back in 2009, bit of a context. When the line was first conceived back in 2009, the l first conceived back in 2009, the estimated first conceived back in 2009, the estimated cost first conceived back in 2009, the estimated cost in first conceived back in 2009, the estimated cost in 2009 first conceived back in 2009, the estimated cost in 2009 prices. First conceived back in 2009, the estimated cost in 2009 prices of| estimated cost in 2009 prices of course estimated cost in 2009 prices of course was estimated cost in 2009 prices of course was £37. 5 estimated cost in 2009 prices of course was {37. 5 billion. Estimated cost in 2009 prices of course was {37. 5 billion. By estimated cost in 2009 prices of. Course was {37. 5 billion. By 2020, the estimated course was {37. 5 billion. By 2020, the estimated cost course was {37. 5 billion. By 2020, the estimated cost had course was {37. 5 billion. By 2020, the estimated cost had risen course was {37. 5 billion. By 2020, the estimated cost had risen to course was {37. 5 billion. By 2020,| the estimated cost had risen to £72 billion the estimated cost had risen to £72 billion to the estimated cost had risen to £72 billion to £98 the estimated cost had risen to £72 billion to £98 billion, the estimated cost had risen to £72 billion to £98 billion, and the estimated cost had risen to £72 billion to £98 billion, and is billion to £98 billion, and is probably billion to £98 billion, and is probably gone billion to £98 billion, and is probably gone beyond billion to £98 billion, and is probably gone beyond thatl billion to £98 billion, and is probably gone beyond that now. Billion to £98 billion, and is probably gone beyond that now. There are a number probably gone beyond that now. There are a number of probably gone beyond that now. There are a number of reasons probably gone beyond that now. There are a number of reasons for probably gone beyond that now. There are a number of reasons for this, are a number of reasons for this, but the are a number of reasons for this, but the national are a number of reasons for this, but the National Audit are a number of reasons for this, but the National Audit office are a number of reasons for this, i but the National Audit office came out with but the National Audit office came out with a but the National Audit office came out with a report but the National Audit office came out with a report not but the National Audit office came out with a report not long but the National Audit office came out with a report not long ago but the National Audit office came i out with a report not long ago which suggested out with a report not long ago which suggested a outwith a report not long ago which suggested a few out with a report not long ago which suggested a few of out with a report not long ago which suggested a few of them. Out with a report not long ago which suggested a few of them. One out with a report not long ago which suggested a few of them. One was. Suggested a few of them. One was that quite suggested a few of them. One was that quite simply, suggested a few of them. One was that quite simply, estimates suggested a few of them. One was that quite simply, estimates in suggested a few of them. One wasj that quite simply, estimates in the early that quite simply, estimates in the early stages that quite simply, estimates in the early stages were that quite simply, estimates in the early stages were too that quite simply, estimates in the early stages were too optimistic. L early stages were too optimistic. There early stages were too optimistic. There were early stages were too optimistic. There were factors early stages were too optimistic. There were factors that early stages were too optimistic. There were factors that had early stages were too optimistic. J there were factors that had been missed there were factors that had been missed out, there were factors that had been missed out, so there were factors that had been missed out, so for there were factors that had been missed out, so for example, there were factors that had been. Missed out, so for example, when engiheers missed out, so for example, when engineers started missed out, so for example, when engineers started looking missed out, so for example, when engineers started looking at missed out, so for example, when engineers started looking at the l engineers started looking at the line and engineers started looking at the line and how engineers started looking at the line and how it engineers started looking at the line and how it would engineers started looking at the line and how it would be engineers started looking at the. Line and how it would be installed, they found line and how it would be installed, they found that line and how it would be installed, they found that the line and how it would be installed, they found that the ground line and how it would be installed, they found that the ground wasntl line and how it would be installed,. They found that the ground wasnt as favourable they found that the ground wasnt as favourable as they found that the ground wasnt as favourable as they they found that the ground wasnt as favourable as they expected, they found that the ground wasnt as favourable as they expected, so favourable as they expected, so there favourable as they expected, so there were favourable as they expected, so there were more favourable as they expected, so there were more engineering i favourable as they expected, so there were more Engineering Works heeded there were more Engineering Works needed to there were more Engineering Works needed to make there were more Engineering Works needed to make it there were more Engineering Works needed to make it stable there were more Engineering Works needed to make it stable and there were more Engineering Works needed to make it stable and put. There were more Engineering Works needed to make it stable and put a | needed to make it stable and put a line across, needed to make it stable and put a line across, and needed to make it stable and put a line across, and that needed to make it stable and put a line across, and that up needed to make it stable and put a line across, and that up to needed to make it stable and put a line across, and that up to the line across, and that up to the costs line across, and that up to the costs then line across, and that up to the costs. Then theres line across, and that up to the costs. Then theres the line across, and that up to the costs. Then theres the fact i line across, and that up to the i costs. Then theres the fact that its been costs. Then theres the fact that its been necessary costs. Then theres the fact that its been necessary for costs. Then theres the fact that its been necessary for politicall its been necessary for political reasons its been necessary for political reasons to its been necessary for political reasons to make its been necessary for political reasons to make sure its been necessary for political reasons to make sure that its been necessary for political reasons to make sure that thei its been necessary for political reasons to make sure that the line is as reasons to make sure that the line is as inconspicuous reasons to make sure that the line is as inconspicuous as reasons to make sure that the line is as inconspicuous as possible. I is as inconspicuous as possible. Thats is as inconspicuous as possible. Thats involved is as inconspicuous as possible. Thats involved building is as inconspicuous as possible. Thats involved building more. Thats involved building more cuttings. Thats involved building more cuttings. At thats involved building more cuttings, at least thats involved building more cuttings, at least talking thats involved building more. Cuttings, at least talking about phase cuttings, at least talking about phase one cuttings, at least talking about phase one of cuttings, at least talking about phase one of the cuttings, at least talking about phase one of the operation cuttings, at least talking about phase one of the operation between london phase one of the operation between london and phase one of the operation between london and birmingham. Phase one of the operation between london and birmingham. So phase one of the operation between london and birmingham. So weve i phase one of the operation between. London and birmingham. So weve had longer london and birmingham. So weve had longer tunnels london and birmingham. So weve had longer tunnels than london and birmingham. So weve had longer tunnels than anticipated london and birmingham. So weve had longer tunnels than anticipated and longer tunnels than anticipated and more longer tunnels than anticipated and more of longer tunnels than anticipated and more of the longer tunnels than anticipated and more of the line longer tunnels than anticipated and more of the line put longer tunnels than anticipated and more of the line put into longer tunnels than anticipated and more of the line put into cuttings. More of the line put into cuttings where more of the line put into cuttings where its more of the line put into cuttings where its half more of the line put into cuttings where its half buried, more of the line put into cuttings where its half buried, and more of the line put into cuttings where its half buried, and all where its half buried, and all this costs where its half buried, and all this costs money where its half buried, and all this costs money so where its half buried, and all this costs money. So the where its half buried, and all this costs money. So the original costs money. So the original estimates costs money. So the original estimates were costs money. So the original. Estimates were overoptimistic, costs money. So the original estimates were overoptimistic, the reality estimates were overoptimistic, the reality has estimates were overoptimistic, the reality has been estimates were overoptimistic, the reality has been different estimates were overoptimistic, the reality has been different from estimates were overoptimistic, thel reality has been different from what was expected. Reality has been different from what was expected, and reality has been different from what was expected, and also reality has been different from what was expected, and also weve reality has been different from what l was expected, and also weve had the impact was expected, and also weve had the impact of was expected, and also weve had the impact of the was expected, and also weve had the impact of the ukraine was expected, and also weve had the impact of the ukraine war was expected, and also weve had the impact of the ukraine war which was expected, and also weve had the impact of the ukraine war which putsl impact of the ukraine war which puts the cost impact of the ukraine war which puts the cost of impact of the ukraine war which puts the cost of steel impact of the ukraine war which puts the cost of steel up impact of the ukraine war which puts the cost of steel up in impact of the ukraine war which puts the cost of steel up in particular the cost of steel up in particular very the cost of steel up in particular very sharply the cost of steel up in particular very sharply and the cost of steel up in particular very sharply and quickly, the cost of steel up in particular very sharply and quickly, so the cost of steel up in particular. Very sharply and quickly, so thats been very sharply and quickly, so thats been a very sharply and quickly, so thats been a factor very sharply and quickly, so thats been a factor as very sharply and quickly, so thats been a factor as well. Very sharply and quickly, so thats been a factor as well. Very sharply and quickly, so thats been a factor as well. Jeremy, your thou~hts been a factor as well. Jeremy, your thoughts on been a factor as well. Jeremy, your thoughts on this . Been a factor as well. Jeremy, your thoughts on this . Because been a factor as well. Jeremy, your thoughts on this . Because the thoughts on this . Because the Company Actually have to give the government a monthly account of where the costs are. So why have costs spiralled in the way the government say they have over the years, if they get these sets of figures every single month . Well, as was said, there figures every single month . Well, as was said, there are figures every single month . Well, as was said, there are a figures every single month . Well, as was said, there are a whole figures every single month . Well, as was said, there are a whole load of. Was said, there are a whole load of reasons was said, there are a whole load of reasons in was said, there are a whole load of reasons in terms of infrastructure why that reasons in terms of infrastructure why that is reasons in terms of infrastructure why that is the case. Also to start with. Why that is the case. Also to start with. The why that is the case. Also to start with, the cost for the line was simply with, the cost for the line was simply the cost of the line, wasnt including simply the cost of the line, wasnt including the rolling stop, which ot including the rolling stop, which got added into that. Its not simply inflation got added into that. Its not simply inflation. But then of course, weve ot inflation. But then of course, weve got a inflation. But then of course, weve got a much inflation. But then of course, weve got a much stronger green focus in the country got a much stronger green focus in the country then we used to have, so now we the country then we used to have, so now we really need to have low carbon now we really need to have low Carbon Dioxide concrete, so we will see in Carbon Dioxide concrete, so we will see in the Carbon Dioxide concrete, so we will see in the record breaking viaduct being see in the record breaking viaduct being built see in the record breaking viaduct being built at the moment, really low Carbon Dioxide concrete that costs low Carbon Dioxide concrete that costs more low Carbon Dioxide concrete that costs more. And weve got the new factories costs more. And weve got the new factories to costs more. And weve got the new factories to build the rolling stop, both in factories to build the rolling stop, both in derby and durham, because theyre both in derby and durham, because theyre all both in derby and durham, because theyre all being built in the uk. These theyre all being built in the uk. These are theyre all being built in the uk. These are some of the greenest factories these are some of the greenest factories on the planet, and these are some factories on the planet, and these are some of the Showcase Items of the project those also cost money, and that the project those also cost money, and that has the project those also cost money, and that has increased because of the financial crisis post covid. So it is all the financial crisis post covid. So it is all those expected things which it is all those expected things which have come together, and this is where which have come together, and this is where the value for money of the vision is where the value for money of the vision really is where the value for money of the vision really counts, and that is i think vision really counts, and that is i think now vision really counts, and that is i think now what is being looked at, and we think now what is being looked at, and we will think now what is being looked at, and we will see what the outcome of that is and we will see what the outcome of that is frie and we will see what the outcome of that is. ~ ,. , and we will see what the outcome of thatis. Y ,. ,. , that is. My next question comes via letter ask, that is. My next question comes via letter ask. It that is. My next question comes via letter ask, it is that is. My next question comes via letter ask, it is anonymous that is. My next question comes via letter ask, it is anonymous but a i letter ask, it is anonymous but a civil question, lowest, ill put this to you because over the years im sure people have talked about it, it affects your commute, how much quicker with the birmingham to central line beat with hs2, but what have people said to you In Manchester about how much this would, if it went ahead, affect your Journey Times . Journey times . Yet, i think in relation to Journey Times . Yet, i think in relation to how Journey Times . Yet, i think in relation to how much Journey Times . Yet, i think in relation to how much quicker| Journey Times . Yet, i think in. Relation to how much quicker the journey gets, and ill be corrected on this by the actual experts, but i think its about 30 minutes quicker. And i think one of the main considerations there is that there is a bit of a public persona that hsz is a bit of a public persona that hs2 is about speed, and about it being so much quicker. Now of course thats important, but for me, you asked me earlier about myjourney on the commute, and for me there is two real problems. One, its manifestly unreliable at the moment, and secondly, its capacity. So while speed is of course an important part of hs2, speed is of course an important part of h52, i speed is of course an important part of hs2, i think its actually freeing of those local lines and having a more Reliable Service thats more important to me, as somebody who commutes on a daily basis. ,. ,~ ,. ,. , basis. Lowest, let me ask you a sopplementary basis. Lowest, let me ask you a supplementary question, basis. Lowest, let me ask you a supplementary question, what. Basis. Lowest, let me ask you a i supplementary question, what you think that would do to levelling up . Weve heard so much from the government about that, where do you think that leaves levelling up . Lois. I think that leaves levelling up . Lois. ~ �. Think that leaves levelling up . Lois. ~ � , ,. Lois. I think its lip service to levelling lois. I think its lip service to levelling up. Lois. I think its lip service to levelling up, if lois. I think its lip service to levelling up, if it lois. I think its lip service to levelling up, if it gets lois. I think its lip service to| levelling up, if it gets frank, because the leads lines already gone, the Manchester Line is left. And infrastructure is such a key part of levelling out because it impacts employment and leisure, and hospitality. If manchester or birmingham needs to be a proper second city and levelling up, even a first city, than there needs to be the infrastructure to support that, and itjust wont be there without hsz. And it ust wont be there without hs2. � ,. ,. ,. , and it ust wont be there without hs2. � ,. ,. ,. ,. , h52. Lets turn to another question, this one from h52. Lets turn to another question, this one from chris, h52. Lets turn to another question, this one from chris, who h52. Lets turn to another question, this one from chris, who says, h52. Lets turn to another question, | this one from chris, who says, what factors is the Prime Minister basing his decision on, and is there anything he is still waiting for . Theo, your thoughts on that . Well. Theo, your thoughts on that . Well, the obvious theo, your thoughts on that . Well, the obvious answer theo, your thoughts on that . Well, the obvious answer is theo, your thoughts on that . Well, the obvious answer is that theo, your thoughts on that . Well, the obvious answer is that its theo, your thoughts on that . Well, the obvious answer is that its a the obvious answer is that its a cost the obvious answer is that its a cost related decision. The obvious answer is that its a cost related decision. When the obvious answer is that its a| cost related decision. When you the obvious answer is that its a cost related decision. When you talk about cost related decision. When you talk about a cost related decision. When you talk about a mammoth cost related decision. When you talk about a mammoth investment cost related decision. When you talk about a mammoth investment of. Cost related decision. When you talk. About a mammoth investment of £100 billion. About a mammoth investment of £100 billion. Give about a mammoth investment of £100 billion. Give or about a mammoth investment of £100 billion, give or take, about a mammoth investment of £100 billion, give or take, there about a mammoth investment of £100 billion, give or take, there are billion, give or take, there are major billion, give or take, there are major decisions billion, give or take, there are major decisions to billion, give or take, there are major decisions to be billion, give or take, there are major decisions to be taken. L billion, give or take, there are. Major decisions to be taken. And billion, give or take, there are major decisions to be taken. And as we know. Major decisions to be taken. And as we know. Public major decisions to be taken. And as we know, public finances major decisions to be taken. And as we know, public finances are major decisions to be taken. And as we know, public finances are underl we know, public finances are under enormous we know, public finances are under enormous pressure we know, public finances are under enormous pressure at we know, public finances are under enormous pressure at the we know, public finances are underl enormous pressure at the moment, taxes enormous pressure at the moment, taxes are enormous pressure at the moment, taxes are high enormous pressure at the moment, taxes are high enormous pressure at the moment, taxes are high hes enormous pressure at the moment, taxes are high hes head enormous pressure at the moment, taxes are high hes head of enormous pressure at the moment, taxes are high hes head of a taxes are high hes head of a Government Taxes are high hes head of a government which taxes are high hes head of a government which would taxes are high hes head of a government which would like, | taxes are high hes head of a. Government which would like, if taxes are high hes head of a. Government which would like, if it could. Government which would like, if it could. To government which would like, if it could, to reduce government which would like, if it could, to reduce taxes, government which would like, if it could, to reduce taxes, which could, to reduce taxes, which doesnt could, to reduce taxes, which doesnt seem could, to reduce taxes, which doesnt seem to could, to reduce taxes, which doesnt seem to be could, to reduce taxes, which doesnt seem to be in could, to reduce taxes, which doesnt seem to be in a could, to reduce taxes, which. Doesnt seem to be in a position could, to reduce taxes, which doesnt seem to be in a position to doesnt seem to be in a position to do so doesnt seem to be in a position to do so at doesnt seem to be in a position to do so at the doesnt seem to be in a position to do so at the moment, doesnt seem to be in a position toj do so at the moment, certainly the impression do so at the moment, certainly the impression the do so at the moment, certainly the impression the chancellor do so at the moment, certainly the impression the chancellor gave do so at the moment, certainly the impression the chancellor gave in i impression the chancellor gave in his speech impression the chancellor gave in his speech to impression the chancellor gave in his speech to the impression the chancellor gave in his speech to the Tory Impression the chancellor gave in his speech to the tory party impression the chancellor gave in his speech to the tory party i impression the chancellor gave in his speech to the tory party atj his speech to the tory party at the conservative his speech to the tory party at the conservative party his speech to the tory party at| the conservative Party Conference this week the conservative Party Conference this week so the conservative Party Conference this week. So these the conservative Party Conference this week. So these are the conservative Party Conference this week. So these are the the conservative Party Conference| this week. So these are the issues hell be this week. So these are the issues hell be weighing this week. So these are the issues hell be weighing up, this week. So these are the issues hell be weighing up, can this week. So these are the issues hell be weighing up, can it this week. So these are the issues hell be weighing up, can it be hell be weighing up, can it be afforded hell be weighing up, can it be afforded to hell be weighing up, can it be afforded to start hell be weighing up, can it be afforded to start with . Hell be weighing up, can it be afforded to start with . And i hell be weighing up, can it be afforded to start with . And canada money afforded to start with . And canada money be afforded to start with . And canada money be better afforded to start with . And canada money be better spent afforded to start with . And canada | money be better spent elsewhere . Afforded to start with . And canada money be better spent elsewhere . And as we understand money be better spent elsewhere . And as we understand it, money be better spent elsewhere . And as we understand it, if money be better spent elsewhere . And as we understand it, if the money be better spent elsewhere . And as we understand it, if the h52 as we understand it, if the h52 segment as we understand it, if the h52 segment from as we understand it, if the h52 segment from birmingham as we understand it, if the h52 segment from birmingham to| segment from birmingham to manchester segment from birmingham to manchester is segment from birmingham to manchester is cancelled, segment from birmingham to manchester is cancelled, the i segment from birmingham to manchester is cancelled, the money thats manchester is cancelled, the money thats planned manchester is cancelled, the money thats planned to manchester is cancelled, the money thats planned to be manchester is cancelled, the money thats planned to be spent manchester is cancelled, the money thats planned to be spent On Manchester is cancelled, the money thats planned to be spent on that l thats planned to be spent on that would thats planned to be spent on that would be thats planned to be spent on that would be diverted thats planned to be spent on that would be diverted into thats planned to be spent on that would be diverted into other would be diverted into other transport would be diverted into other transport projects would be diverted into other transport projects on would be diverted into other transport projects on a would be diverted into other. Transport projects on a regional basis. Transport projects on a regional basis. And transport projects on a regional basis. And he transport projects on a regional basis, and he may transport projects on a regional basis, and he may be transport projects on a regional basis, and he may be Gamblingj Transport Projects on a regional. Basis, and he may be gambling at those basis, and he may be gambling at those projects basis, and he may be gambling at those projects would basis, and he may be gambling at those projects would be basis, and he may be gambling at those projects would be more basis, and he may be gambling at those projects would be more popular and beneficial those projects would be more popular and beneficial to those projects would be more popular and beneficial to people, and beneficial to people, particularly and beneficial to people, particularly in and beneficial to people, particularly in the and beneficial to people, particularly in the north i and beneficial to people, i particularly in the north of england. Particularly in the north of england, then particularly in the north of england, then hsz particularly in the north of england, then hsz wouldl particularly in the north of. England, then hsz would be. Particularly in the north of england, then h52 would be. Susan has a question england, then h52 would be. Susan has a question that england, then h52 would be. Susan has a question that shes england, then h52 would be. Susan has a question that shes sent england, then h52 would be. Susan has a question that shes sent us, l has a question that shes sent us, and says, has his Government Waste of taxpayers money on hs2 to the detriment of maintaining Public Services . Let me askjeremy, perhaps a thought on that, but also if you and up, if this is cancelled, with a line from not quite Central London to birmingham, your assessment of the value of that project, in terms of the billions that have been spent . I project, in terms of the billions that have been spent . Project, in terms of the billions that have been spent . I think the ke thin that have been spent . I think the key thing to that have been spent . I think the key thing to consider that have been spent . I think the key thing to consider here that have been spent . I think the key thing to consider here is that have been spent . I think the key thing to consider here is the l key thing to consider here is the vision key thing to consider here is the vision behind hsz key thing to consider here is the vision behind h52 and the value that is an potentially could be delivered. The point about speed of transport delivered. The point about speed of transport for the public is a key Point Transport for the public is a key Point Transport for the public is a key point but transport for the public is a key point but the main thing is, for instance. Point but the main thing is, for instance, that it frees up freight, and that instance, that it frees up freight, and that is instance, that it frees up freight, and that is a really big point. It cannot and that is a really big point. It cannot two and that is a really big point. It cannot two days off the journey time for freight cannot two days off the journey time for freight from london to birmingham because having hsz would free up birmingham because having hsz would free up the birmingham because having hsz would free up the existing network, not only for free up the existing network, not only for local Passenger Services but also only for local Passenger Services but also freight. In the value of that is but also freight. In the value of that is that you are then taking freight that is that you are then taking freight off the motorways. You are taking freight off the motorways. You are taking freight off the local roads, you are taking freight off the local roads, you are not injuring people in accidents. You are not injuring people in accidents, and all those sorts of issues accidents, and all those sorts of issues that accidents, and all those sorts of issues that you have with hdv pots on the issues that you have with hdv pots on the road, and all those things need on the road, and all those things need to on the road, and all those things need to be on the road, and all those things need to be taken into account when considering need to be taken into account when considering whether this is a good spend considering whether this is a good spend of considering whether this is a good spend of money, compared to spending elsewhere spend of money, compared to spending elsewhere from the government. Jeremy, elsewhere from the government. Jeremy, you take me to a question that dave, and dorsett has asked, ill put it to you because he says, why didnt they design hs2 to take to vehicles like the euro tunnel . Surely this would remove large numbers of vehicle from our roan, and alleviate pollution . In numbers of vehicle from our roan, and alleviate pollution . And alleviate pollution . In that context it would and alleviate pollution . In that context it would only and alleviate pollution . In that context it would only alleviate l context it would only alleviate pollution on the line of route, whereas pollution on the line of route, whereas what happens with the freight whereas what happens with the freight is whereas what happens with the freight is that it is brought from further freight is that it is brought from further afield like southampton, felixstowe, and the channel tunnel itself felixstowe, and the channel tunnel itself so felixstowe, and the channel tunnel itself. So you taking a whole range ofjourneys itself. So you taking a whole range ofjourneys off itself. So you taking a whole range of journeys off the itself. So you taking a whole range ofjourneys off the motorways, which you cant ofjourneys off the motorways, which you cant simply do by having a car carrying you cant simply do by having a Car Carrying Train like they have in the alps and carrying train like they have in the alps and central europe. So this is really alps and central europe. So this is really about changing the way that transport really about changing the way that transport operate on the whole of the uk. Transport operate on the whole of the uk. It transport operate on the whole of the uk, it is not about rail, its about the uk, it is not about rail, its about changing the Rail Infrastructure that allows you then to change infrastructure that allows you then to change the way the roads are used. To change the way the roads are used. And to change the way the roads are used, and the number of lorries around used, and the number of lorries around cities and towns in the country around cities and towns in the country as around cities and towns in the country as a consequence of that. So its a country as a consequence of that. So its a really country as a consequence of that. So its a really important vision piece for the its a really important vision piece for the future. And on top of that, but it for the future. And on top of that, but it creates is 30,000 ukjobs so thats but it creates is 30,000 ukjobs so thats 30,000 jobs on the line, 2700 so thats 30,000 jobs on the line, 2700 60s so thats 30,000 jobs on the line, 2700 605 smes so thats 30,000 jobs on the line, 2700 60s smes supported by this project 2700 60s smes supported by this project. This is all super important, the bulk of the manufacturing is in derby and durham 2760 manufacturing is in derby and durham 2760 smes. Manufacturing is in derby and durham 2760 smes. These are major northern 2760 smes. These are major northern and midland cities, so the key Point Northern and midland cities, so the key point here is about levelling up, key point here is about levelling up. The key point here is about levelling up, the decisions that are necessary to actually up, the decisions that are necessary to actually deliver the vision for the country. I� ll to actually deliver the vision for the country to actually deliver the vision for thecount. �. , the country. Ill come back to those final thoughts the country. Ill come back to those final thoughts because the country. Ill come back to those final thoughts because we the country. Ill come back to those final thoughts because we have final thoughts because we have another question along those lines. Lois, i want to bring you in because it is difficult to anticipate this political decision, given whats been said publicly, but it is quite possible that we get an announcement both about hs2, but also perhaps about improving East West Communications where you are, also buses and improvements they are, potholes have been talked about supporters of perhaps reconsidering all this point to things that the public want to fix now with money now. In terms of that argument, whats your response . Whats your response . Well, of course they whats your response . Well, of course they are whats your response . Well, of course they are important, whats your response . Well, of course they are important, as l whats your response . Well, of course they are important, as well. I think my response is that this was planned to be the final leg of the rail network, and this is an important thing to consider notjust right now, but in the future. And as we talked about, those processes need to be put in place. So i dont think you can ignore the infrastructure, i think we need to ask ourselves, why in 2023 have we not caught infrastructure thats efficient and affordable . So that must be prioritised, and whilst i can see, lets sort buses, potholes, and all those things that are important on a day to day basis, where does that leave us in ten years . Im not sure kicking the can down the road again will help us any more. ,. Down the road again will help us any more. , y ,. ,. , more. Jeremy, Ust A Thought Followin more. Jeremy, Ust A Thought Following on more. Jeremy, jUst A Thought Following on from more. Jeremy, jUst A Thought Following on from that, more. Jeremy, jUst A Thought Following on from that, a more. Jeremy, just a thought | following on from that, a twin thought, if you would, why cant the uk do both things, all those things lois was talking through, and hs2, and what do you think it does for the Uks International reputation if that leg does get scrapped in terms of delivering a major Infrastructure Project . I of delivering a maor infrastructure roect . ~. ~ ,. , project . I think taking the second oint first, project . I think taking the second point first, and project . I think taking the second point first, and i project . I think taking the second point first, and i cant project . I think taking the second point first, and i cant speak project . I think taking the second point first, and i cant speak for l point first, and i cant speak for rishi point first, and i cant speak for rishi sunak, but the chopping and changing rishi sunak, but the chopping and changing of Major Projects which have changing of Major Projects which have been put together by the same government for good Vision Purposes is a really government for good Vision Purposes is a really serious matter and needs to have is a really serious matter and needs to have a is a really serious matter and needs to have a very strong explanation, should that to have a very strong explanation, should that be the case. And i think what we should that be the case. And i think what we can should that be the case. And i think what we can do, however, is integrate what we can do, however, is integrate our planning rather better. Integrate our planning rather better, so that we have got that integrated local planning, we have ot integrated local planning, we have got buses integrated local planning, we have got buses and train, and trams, and road networks, integrated with the high speed rail network. One hour and 1530 high speed rail network. One hour and 15 30 minutes to manchester is what hsz and 15 30 minutes to manchester is what hsz promises that means that you will what hsz promises that means that you will then need those local networks you will then need those local networks to rapidly disperse people to the networks to rapidly disperse people to the places that they want to go, which to the places that they want to go, which requiresjoined up planning. Its which requiresjoined up planning. Its not which requiresjoined up planning. Its not that difficult, and we have the opportunity to grab all of those issues the opportunity to grab all of those issues right now, combined them, and deliver issues right now, combined them, and deliver something which is even better deliver something which is even better as deliver something which is even better as a joint effort. I� ve deliver something which is even better as a joint effort. Better as a oint effort. Ive only not better as a oint effort. Ive only ot 34 better as a joint effort. Ive only got 34 minutes better as a joint effort. Ive only got 34 minutes left, better as a joint effort. Ive only got 34 minutes left, so better as a joint effort. Ive only got 34 minutes left, so briefly| better as a joint effort. Ive only. Got 34 minutes left, so briefly if got 3 4 minutes left, so briefly if you could, as we can get through a few more questions, theo, we heard the conservative West Midlands mayor say around this time yesterday that he thought still, the package around hsz, the he thought still, the package around hs2, the final leg could be restructured, bringing in private investment is it too late to try any of those things in terms of trying to find an equation that takes this project forward . Takes this proect forward . Well, i think ou takes this project forward . Well, i think you would takes this project forward . Well, i think you would have takes this project forward . Well, i think you would have to takes this project forward . Well, i think you would have to ask takes this project forward . Well, i think you would have to ask the i think you would have to ask the government think you would have to ask the government that think you would have to ask the government that question, think you would have to ask the government that question, butl think you would have to ask the i government that question, but if think you would have to ask the government that question, but if you look at government that question, but if you look at It Government that question, but if you look at it with government that question, but if you look at it with a government that question, but if you look at it with a bIt Government that question, but if you look at it with a bit of government that question, but if you look at it with a bit of a government that question, but if you look at it with a bit of a sideways look at it with a bit of a sideways perspective look at it with a bit of a sideways perspective look at it with a bit of a sideways perspective if look at it with a bit of a sideways perspective if the look at it with a bit of a sideways perspective if the governmentl perspective if the government could perspective if the government could avoid perspective if the government could avoid cancelling perspective if the government could avoid cancelling this perspective if the government i could avoid cancelling this project and make could avoid cancelling this project and make it could avoid cancelling this project and make it fund could avoid cancelling this project and make it fund itself could avoid cancelling this project and make it fund itself and and make it fund itself and still pay for and make it fund itself and still pay for the and make it fund itself and still pay for the other and make it fund itself and still pay for the other things and make it fund itself and stilli pay for the other things it wants and make it fund itself and still. Pay for the other things it wants to do, pay for the other things it wants to do. Than pay for the other things it wants to do. Than it pay for the other things it wants to do, than it would pay for the other things it wants to do, than it would probably pay for the other things it wants to do, than it would probably do so. I do, than it would probably do so. The problem do, than it would probably do so. The problem we do, than it would probably do so. The problem we have do, than it would probably do so. The problem we have with do, than it would probably do so. The problem we have with majorl the problem we have with major infrastructure the problem we have with major infrastructure generally the problem we have with major| infrastructure generally speaking the problem we have with major. Infrastructure generally speaking is that costs infrastructure generally speaking is that costs to infrastructure generally speaking is that costs to rise, infrastructure generally speaking is that costs to rise, its infrastructure generally speaking is that costs to rise, its very infrastructure generally speaking is that costs to rise, its very easy that costs to rise, its very easy for a that costs to rise, its very easy for a government that costs to rise, its very easy for a government at that costs to rise, its very easy for a government at the that costs to rise, its very easy for a government at the start. That costs to rise, its very easy| for a government at the start of that costs to rise, its very easy fora government at the start of the for a government at the start of the process for a government at the start of the process to for a government at the start of the process to put for a government at the start of the process to put out for a government at the start of the process to put out a for a government at the start of the process to put out a Grand Process to put out a grand vision and say process to put out a grand vision and say this process to put out a grand vision and say this is process to put out a grand vision and say this is what process to put out a grand vision and say this is what we process to put out a grand vision and say this is what we want i process to put out a grand vision and say this is what we want toj process to put out a grand vision and say this is what we want to do, this will and say this is what we want to do, this will be and say this is what we want to do, this will be good and say this is what we want to do, this will be good for the and say this is what we want to do, this will be good for the country. I this will be good for the country. Edually this will be good for the country. Equally for this will be good for the country. Equally for governments this will be good for the country. Equally for governments further l this will be good for the country. Equally for governments further down the line equally for governments further down the line when equally for governments further down the line when the equally for governments further down the line when the bills equally for governments further down the line when the bills come equally for governments further down the line when the bills come in, the line when the bills come in, theres the line when the bills come in, theres a the line when the bills come in, theres a temptation the line when the bills come in, theres a temptation to the line when the bills come in, theres a temptation to say, the line when the bills come in, l theres a temptation to say, this is now theres a temptation to say, this is now unaffordable, theres a temptation to say, this is now unaffordable, we theres a temptation to say, this is now unaffordable, we cant theres a temptation to say, this. Is now unaffordable, we cant afford it. Is now unaffordable, we cant afford it i is now unaffordable, we cant afford it i would is now unaffordable, we cant afford it. I would imagine is now unaffordable, we cant afford it. I would imagine that is now unaffordable, we cant afford it. I would imagine that over is now unaffordable, we cant afford it. I would imagine that over the i it. I would imagine that over the past it. I would imagine that over the past weeks it. I would imagine that over the past weeks and it. I would imagine that over the past weeks and months, it. I would imagine that over the past weeks and months, the past weeks and months, the government past weeks and months, the government has past weeks and months, the government has been past weeks and months, the i government has been looking past weeks and months, the government has been looking at every option government has been looking at every option for government has been looking at every option for continuing government has been looking at every option for continuing to government has been looking at every option for continuing to Fund Government has been looking at every option for continuing to fund hsz, option for continuing to fund hsz, or for option for continuing to fund hsz, or for delaying option for continuing to fund hsz, or for delaying phase option for continuing to fund hsz, or for delaying phase two, option for continuing to fund hsz, or for delaying phase two, ratherl or for delaying phase two, rather than or for delaying phase two, rather than cancelling or for delaying phase two, rather than cancelling it, or for delaying phase two, rather than cancelling it, if or for delaying phase two, rather than cancelling it, if indeed than cancelling it, if indeed cancelling than cancelling it, if indeed cancelling is than cancelling it, if indeed cancelling is what than cancelling it, if indeed cancelling is what its than cancelling it, if indeed i cancelling is what its planning than cancelling it, if indeed cancelling is what its planning to do. Cancelling is what its planning to do but cancelling is what its planning to do. But ultimately cancelling is what its planning to do. But ultimately i cancelling is what its planning to do. But ultimately i think cancelling is what its planning to do. But ultimately i think by cancelling is what its planning to| do. But ultimately i think by now, from do. But ultimately i think by now, from what do. But ultimately i think by now, from what we do. But ultimately i think by now, from what we are do. But ultimately i think by now, from what we are hearing, do. But ultimately i think by now, from what we are hearing, the. From what we are hearing, the decisions from what we are hearing, the decisions have from what we are hearing, the decisions have been from what we are hearing, the decisions have been taken,. From what we are hearing, the decisions have been taken, isi from what we are hearing, the. Decisions have been taken, isjust from what we are hearing, the decisions have been taken, isjust a Matter Decisions have been taken, isjust a matter of decisions have been taken, isjust a matter of timing decisions have been taken, isjust a matter of timing and decisions have been taken, isjust a matter of timing and Optics Decisions have been taken, isjust a matter of timing and optics about. Matter of timing and optics about when matter of timing and optics about when we matter of timing and optics about when we hear matter of timing and optics about when we hear that matter of timing and optics about when we hear that decision. Matter of timing and optics about when we hear that decision. find . When we hear that decision. Andy burnham was when we hear that decision. Andy burnham was saying when we hear that decision. Andy burnham was saying only when we hear that decision. Aimi burnham was saying only a when we hear that decision. Burnham was saying only a couple of days ago that even at this late stage, delay would be better than all out cancellation. Lois, if thats what we get to hear in the next whenever the announcement is made, its a delay and not a total cancellation, where would you be on that . � , 4 cancellation, where would you be on that . ~ , ~. , that . Absolutely, i think it would be foolish to that . Absolutely, i think it would be foolish to say, that . Absolutely, i think it would be foolish to say, dont that . Absolutely, i think it would be foolish to say, dont scrap i that . Absolutely, i think it would be foolish to say, dont scrap it, crack on as we are. But theres an option isnt there, dont scrap it but re evaluate it, look at the different options and timescales. And i think what we dont want to see is a democrat it being completely kicked off and can. Jeremy, in terms of if it was, and again like all this, and if, if it was delayed, the consequences of that, you think . I was delayed, the consequences of that, you think . That, you think . I think its important that, you think . I think its important to that, you think . I think its important to remember. That, you think . I think its. Important to remember that that, you think . I think its important to remember that this project important to remember that this project includes trains, and the Trains Project includes trains, and the trains that project includes trains, and the trains that it includes our so called trains that it includes our so called conventional network trains, so they called conventional network trains, so they can called conventional network trains, so they can run very quickly on high speed true infrastructure high high speed true infrastructure High Speed Two infrastructure on the existing High Speed Two infrastructure on the existing infrastructure. So for instance. Existing infrastructure. So for instance, youll still be able to run a instance, youll still be able to run a train instance, youll still be able to run a train from london on hsz to birmingham, then onwards to manchester or to leeds as an end to end train. Manchester or to leeds as an end to end train, because thats already part of end train, because thats already part of the end train, because thats already part of the project. So even if some of the part of the project. So even if some of the infrastructure is delayed, there of the infrastructure is delayed, there is of the infrastructure is delayed, there is still the opportunity to take there is still the opportunity to take the there is still the opportunity to take The Very Best out of what we can build take The Very Best out of what we can build in take The Very Best out of what we can build in terms of rolling stock. Jeremy, can build in terms of rolling stock. Jeremy. We can build in terms of rolling stock. Jeremy, we are out of time, but thank you so much for your time jeremy, theo, and lois. Thanks to all of you for answering some of those questions, thanks to all of you for sending those questions in. Do stay with us because plenty more for manchester here on bbc news on exactly that major issue, thanks for watching. Hello. Its been a day of sunny spells, but also 1 2 sharp showers. Heres the Satellite Picture from earlier on and you can see a lot of bright weather. And there, just on the edge of the screen, thats the Weather Front that swept across the country last night and brought the thunder and lightning. Now tonight, another Weather Front is approaching this time, itll reach the north of Northern Ireland, and will also start to move across scotland. And this is the beginning of a very wet spell across this part of the country. Our temperatures early in the morning between around 8 10 celsius. Now, back to that Weather Front you can see it moving across Northern Ireland and into scotland. If youre underneath that Weather Front, you could have 2 3 days of really wet weather, whereas in the south, closer to the area of high pressure, the weathers looking fine across the bulk of england and wales. Just a few showers here, relatively warm. But that rain front a narrow one keeps on moving in the same place. So in some spots across scotland, we could have 50 millimetres of rain thats a couple of inches and in the highlands, in the extreme case, even 2 3 times that amount. So thats wednesday, this is wednesday evening. And that Weather Front moves into southern parts of scotland, just clips the Lake District there, and its also across Northern Ireland. So a distinct divide between the cooler north and that slightly milder in the south. Now, heres thursday notice that the wind direction changes, and its now coming in from the south. That means thicker cloud and some outbreaks of rain crossing ireland, and also western parts of scotland. Maybe some damp weather around the irish sea, too. That means the further east and southeast you are on thursday, the brighter the weather will be. And then, skipping to the weekend look at the weather systems, the large scale patterns across the atlantic, one low pressure here. But look at these winds coming in from the south. Now, this is because of the pattern of the jet stream higher in the atmosphere, at around 30,000 feet. And this big dip in thejet stream, or trough, will basically move that warmer atmosphere in the southern climes from spain and portugal, across france and towards the uk. So, temperatures will be climbing across many parts of western europe, and here in the uk, well probably get to the mid 20s, maybe peaking at 26 27 celsius briefly. Even in belfast, temperatures hovering around 20 or so, cardiff in the low 20s, as well. So warmer weather, yes, is on the way. Bye bye. At six the Home Secretary warns of a Hurricane Of Mass Migration and says policiticians have been too squeamish about tackling it. The Wind Of Change that carried my own parents across the globe in the 20th century was a mere gust compared to the hurricane that is coming. It is not the first time the Home Secretary has been outspoken in her language, and some say about time too. A politician willing to be candid. Others say she is being reckless. A man and a boy are in hospital after being struck by lightning at a School Football tournament during yesterdays storm. The 12 year old is in a critical condition. We talk to the family whove won their battle to get the law changed after their daughter was killed by the father of her children. And space junk how a Satellite Company has been slapped with the first ever fine for leaving litter in space. Coming up on sports daily during the hour on bbc news, the Champions League resumes this evening at Manchester United are bottom of their crib after a troubled start to their crib after a troubled start to the season in the face turkish champions. The season, they face the turkish champions