HS2 rail bosses under fire for spending on inclusivity document as costs soar

Training sessions on "unconscious bias" revealed

HS2, the high-speed rail project in the UK, has come under scrutiny after it was revealed that bosses had spent money on an "Equality, Diversity and Inclusion" document, which included training sessions on "unconscious bias". This revelation has sparked criticism, especially as the project's finances are already out of control. Tory MP Greg Smith, a member of the Transport Select Committee, described the spending as using public funds to "bake a huge slice of woke pie".

Rishi Sunak considers cancelling part of the project

The escalating costs of the HS2 project have reportedly raised concerns for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who is now contemplating canceling part of the project. The full cost of HS2, according to Labour peer Lord Berkeley, could reach an eye-watering £180 billion.

Inclusive leadership workshops and LGBTQ+ representation

HS2 bosses have also been revealed to have conducted an inclusive leadership workshop for the scheme's top sixty technical leaders. Additionally, the document shows that HS2 staff have received training on conscious inclusion and bullying. The document also highlights that around 4% of workers on the project identify as LGBTQ+, with 8% of bosses on Phase 2 also identifying as LGBTQ+.

In response to the criticism, HS2 Ltd stated: "It’s vital we set high standards to ensure everyone is able to work in a safe and supportive environment."