Downing Street has refused to ensure the HS2 railway line will run to Manchester as deliberate amid studies Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunt are in talks about scrapping the venture's second stage.

It comes after The Independent reported ministers had been contemplating shelving the northern part amid issues about spiralling prices and extreme delays.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman stated "spades are already in the ground on our HS2 programme and we're focused on delivering it" however wouldn't promise the road would go to Manchester.

"I can't comment on speculation around a leaked document. It is obviously standard process for departments to discuss the phasing of major projects like HS2... but the work is already under way," he stated.

Asked whether or not the Prime Minister was dedicated to the road going to Manchester, the spokesman stated: "We are committed to HS2, to the project.

"I am unable to touch upon the hypothesis that is a results of {a photograph}. We are as you already know wanting on the rephasing of the work in one of the best pursuits of passengers and taxpayers."

Content Source: information.sky.com