Chinese could get role in HS2 - but not for next five years

摘要

Chinese contractors are unlikely to get a foothold into the HS2 project for at least five years after the government made clear that it had not spoken to the Beijing firm that wants to build the route for a fraction of its current cost. Last week Building revealed that China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) had written to HS2 chief executive Mark Thurston to say that the line could be built for closer to its £56bn budget and within five years. Grant Shapps, the transport secretary, said talks were limited to CRCC and HS2 but admitted: "I'm keen to learn from anybody and the Chinese build these things fast." He added: "I really want to get this thing built faster if it's possible, so we would be fools not to have a conversation."