“We have started the year-long task of fundamentally resetting the project.”<\/p>\n
“As part of that reset, we have reduced financial delegations to HS2 Ltd, placing a lid on spiralling costs until the rest is complete and we regain confidence.”<\/p>\n
The transport secretary also pledged to fully investigate allegations of fraud in the supply chain and prosecute if proven.<\/p>\n
Alexander said: “There are also allegations that parts of the supply chain have been defrauding taxpayers.<\/p>\n
“I have been clear these need to be investigated rapidly and vigorously. If fraud is proven, the consequences will be felt by all involved.<\/p>\n
“I will provide updates to the House on progress with the HMRC investigation that is now underway.<\/p>\n
“No stone will be left unturned in terms of getting to the bottom of this matter,” she said.<\/p>\n
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<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\nIn a statement to Parliament, Alexander announced the appointment of Mike Brown, the former commissioner of Transport for London, to become the new chair of HS2 Ltd.<\/p>\n
Brown previously worked with HS2 chief executive Mark Wild on Crossrail to turn around final delivery of the project.<\/p>\n
The transport secretary published the James Stewart review and accepted all 89 recommendations for a capability and cultural overhaul.<\/p>\n
She confirmed it would be several months before the HS2 chief executive would have a revised budget and completion date.<\/p>\n
Alexander said: “HS2 will work with suppliers so their contracts incentivise saving costs for taxpayers. As far as I am concerned, suppliers should make a better return the more taxpayer money they save.”<\/p>\n
She told MPs: \u201cToday I’m drawing a line in the sand, calling time on years of mismanagement, flawed reporting and ineffective oversight.”<\/p>\n
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