Fareham MP refuses to outright back HS2 despite her initial support as cost continues to 'spiral'

Fareham MP Suella Braverman has previously supported the controversial rail link.

The HS2 project would see a new high-speed rail network linking London, the West Midlands, Leeds and Manchester.

Ms Braverman has previously voted in favour of the project in four votes from 2016 to 2019.

But the project has come under fire as a leaked report suggested the project could cost almost double from the £56bn to £106bn.

The costs have ‘obviously spiralled,’ according to the Conservative MP appearing on ITV’s news show Peston this week.

She said: ‘I think it’s right for the government to be reviewing it and questioning whether it is still value for money and for the government to consider – as many MPs have suggested – maybe it is right to divert that money to other transport projects.

‘When the facts change you change your decision, and I will consider the facts and any reviews the government undertakes. ‘

Explaining her previous support, Ms Braverman told journalist Robert Peston: ‘Personally, I have voted in favour of HS2 so far because I generally support the principle of improving transport.’

Artist's impression of an HS2 train on the Birmingham and Fazeley viaduct, part of the proposed route for the HS2 high speed rail scheme.

A report on the project, known as the Oakervee Report, has recommend phase two of the project be paused.

Transport secretary Grant Shapps told Sky News he demanded the report’s author: ‘Give me the facts, give me the data, give us the information so we can make a proper informed decision.’