What would be the impact of party policies on infrastructure - we reviewed the manifestos ahead of the General Election.
Infrastructure got its own section in the Conservative Party Manifesto launched on Tuesday. Unlike Labour which gave a commitment to an infrastructure commission but instantly raided money from the roads piggy bank for a rail fare freeze, the Tories stuck to existing promises on road and rail spending in particular.
Major investment in rail including HS2 and acceptance of nuclear power provided safety concerns can be allayed were key policies in the Liberal Democrat manifesto launched on Thursday. But the party was still opposed to a new runway for the south east because of noise and air quality concerns, though it promised to “listen carefully” to the conclusions from the Airports Commission.
Labour’s Election manifesto backs infrastructure but promises major reforms in delivery and reallocation of funding.
Manifesto outlines £338bn spending spree to deliver sustainable, low carbon affordable future.
HS2 and renewable energy schemes are unnecessary and unaffordable; investment in fracking and coal power plus a new airport at Manston promised.