Tory West Midlands mayor could resign over Sunak's HS2 decision

On Monday, Mr Street called on Rishi Sunak to deliver on the party's promise to build the HS2 rail network. Photo: OLI SCARFF/AFP

Andy Street, the Conservative mayor of the West Midlands, is considering quitting over the Prime Minister's decision to scrap the northern link of HS2, the Telegraph understands.

Mr Street is outspoken warns against this. The move comes as reports surfaced on Monday and were effectively confirmed by Defense Secretary Grant Shapps on Wednesday.

The Telegraph understands Mr Street has canceled a trip to Manchester to hear Mr Sunak speak, in which the Prime Minister is expected to announce the fate of the high-speed rail service.

Mr's spokesman Streeta said: “We intend to listen to the Prime Minister's speech and respond accordingly.” Prominent Conservative MP Michael Fabricant said he disagreed with the West Midlands mayor over HS2 but “[respects] his integrity,» indicating that Mr. Street is hesitant.

It remains unclear whether Mr Street decides to leave, whether he will simply leave the Conservative Party and remain as mayor as an independent, or whether he will resign from the position entirely.

Mr Street is reported to have met Mr Sunak several times over the past few days as he pushed for a final delay for the northern section of HS2.

The Telegraph repeatedly asked Mr Street two days ago whether whether he should but he will not resign over the shutdown of the northern link of HS2, which he has refused to rule out.

The Conservative mayor told the Telegraph on Monday evening that leaving was a «hypothetical matter».

p> >When asked if he was disappointed by reports about the fate of HS2, he replied: “Of course I was.”

He added: “My only mission today is to offer items to the Premier.” The minister and his team will ensure that HS2 is delivered at a price we can afford.»

Mr Street is also reported to not have a particularly positive relationship with Mr Sunak. as he backed his rival Liz Truss for leadership last summer. election.

As Mr Sunak took to Downing Street, Mr Street warned the Conservatives would lose votes in the West Midlands unless the government backed the region's «groundbreaking devolution deal.»

p>