Tuesday 29 Jan 2013 @ 11:05
WiredGov Newswire (news from other organisations)
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TUC - High-speed rail must deliver jobs and growth, says TUC

The TUC yesterday welcomed plans to extend the new high-speed rail route to Leeds and Manchester but warned that the benefits won't be realised unless the government takes an active role in creating jobs.

Responding to the announcement by transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin, TUC General Secretary Frances O'Grady said: 'HS2 has the potential to be a game-changer for the UK economy if delivered properly.

'The new high-speed links can create thousands of new jobs and boost regional growth, as well as providing a much needed boost for our construction and manufacturing industries.

'The success of HS2, however, will depend upon the government developing a plan that provides opportunities for UK businesses and workers, as well as apprenticeships for young people.'

'It is also imperative that high-speed rail is affordable for working people and that no-one is priced out of travelling on it.'

NOTES TO EDITORS:

- All TUC press releases can be found at www.tuc.org.uk

- Follow the TUC on Twitter: @tucnews

Contacts:

Media enquiries:
Liz Chinchen T: 020 7467 1248 M: 07778 158175 E: media@tuc.org.uk
Rob Holdsworth T: 020 7467 1372 M: 07717 531150 E: rholdsworth@tuc.org.uk
Alex Rossiter T: 020 7467 1337 M: 07887 572130 E: arossiter@tuc.org.uk

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