- HS2 bosses are exploring the possibility of reducing the maximum speed of its high-speed trains as ministers seek to cut spiralling costs on the project.
- The trains are currently designed to reach 360km/h (225mph), which would make them the fastest in the world.
- Government sources suggest that maintaining the current speed would require testing abroad, potentially in China, or waiting for suitable UK tracks, leading to significant delays and billions in extra costs.
- Transport minister Heidi Alexander is reportedly considering all options to save taxpayer money and time, with a six-monthly update expected in Parliament.
- The TSSA union has criticised the proposal, stating that reducing speeds would be 'very unwise' and leave Britain in the 'slow lane' compared to other nations.
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