51AVÊÓÆµ

Conservative Party conference: Rishi Sunak confirms HS2 Manchester leg to be scrapped

The latest farming news from the Conservative Party conference in Manchester

Alex Black
clock • 1 min read
Rishi Sunak speaking at the Conservative Party conference 2023
Image:

Rishi Sunak speaking at the Conservative Party conference 2023

Live Updates

North East Somerset Conservative MP Jacob Rees Mogg has called for the UK to import 'hormone-injected beef' from Australia and the scrapping of import tariffs on food to open up trade.

The prominent Brexiteer spoke at the 'Rally for Growth' at the Conservative Party conference.Ìý

He said Britain was 'not open to the world', calling for the scrapping of all import tariffs with a particular emphasis on food.

He said: "I want cheaper food. I want hormone-injected beef from Australia. I've eaten beef in Australia, it's delicious. There's nothing wrong with it."

HS2

HS2 was also in focus at the Manchester-based conference, with reports that its Manchester leg was going to be scrapped.

Farmers affected by the construction of the high speed line have raised concerns that all their stress and anxiety would 'be for nothing' if the project was cancelled.

More on Politics

Nature Friendly Farming Network unveils its key asks ahead of Welsh and Scottish elections

Nature Friendly Farming Network unveils its key asks ahead of Welsh and Scottish elections

Farmer-led body says greater consideration for sustainble farming is the only way to safeguard the future of the industry and its members

clock 20 February 2026 • 2 min read
Restore Britain announces 16-point plan to get British farmers 'farming again'

Restore Britain announces 16-point plan to get British farmers 'farming again'

Can the political party, founded by Great Yarmouth MP Rupert Lowe, rival not only Nigel Farage's Reform UK, but Labour, the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats at the next General Election?

Chris Brayford
clock 19 February 2026 • 4 min read
EXCLUSIVE - Lynette Steel: "Farming in the UK is under real pressure"

EXCLUSIVE - Lynette Steel: "Farming in the UK is under real pressure"

TFA policy adviser Lynette Steel writes on what farmers want from the Farming Roadmap, and how the Government can help to deliver postive change for the sector

Lynette Steel
clock 16 February 2026 • 3 min read