Is high-speed rail a socially responsible investment?

Building a high-speed rail link between London, Birmingham and the north might be considered a socially-responsible investment, as one expert claims such a move would boost employment and output in England's second city.

William Rogers, policy advisor for the Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said the plans would "revolutionise our local and regional economy", suggesting London-based businesses would be attracted to the urban centre, as well as Leeds and Manchester.

West Midlands' transport authority Centro might also consider such a development an example of socially-responsible investment, as its recent report claimed improved transport would generate a £600 million in economic output and create 10,000 new jobs.

However, the body argued enhancing local and regional rail services, in conjunction with a high-speed link to the capital, would create £1.5 billion for the economy and pave the way for 22,000 jobs.

Mr Rogers notes knock-on benefits would extend to firms supplying components such as parts of the track.  ADNFCR-2318-ID-800101477-ADNFCR