Business leaders in Birmingham have welcomed cross-party support for HS2 as MPs debate the issue in the House of Commons yesterday (Thursday, October 13).

The development of the rail link between London and Birmingham is expected to bring 22,000 jobs and deliver a £1.5 billion boost to the West Midlands economy every year.

Jerry Blackett, chief executive of Birmingham chamber of commerce Group (BCCG), said: "It's encouraging to know that HS2 proposals, which would cut the journey time between the capital and Birmingham to 49 minutes, have already received endorsement from all of the party conferences. 

"The fact that they all support HS2 demonstrates how important HS2 will be to our regional and national economy.

"What really excites businesses in the West Midlands is being right at the heart of the network. Our region is the hub for services to London, the North, Scotland and Europe."

Liberal Democrat Minister for Transport Norman Baker told his party conference in Birmingham that there was "a desperate need for more capacity north to south".

Transport Secretary Philip Hammond said that neglecting major transport infrastructure would lead to neglecting the UK economy. He said HS2 would "allow a levelling of the playing field, away from London and the South East".

Labour's Shadow Secretary of State for Transport Maria Eagle has given full support, calling for first phase legislation to go beyond Birmingham to include the northern cities.