I was disappointed to hear that I, along with seven other MPs representing constituencies along the proposed line-of-route for Phase One of HS2, have had our locus standi rejected by the Lords HS2 Select Committee.

I am committed to ensuring that I represent my constituents in this matter, and I will continue to work with all stakeholders on the compensation and mitigation schemes. Should any of my constituents, who are directly and specially affected, wish to call me as a witness for their own hearing, I should be most happy to appear before the Lords Select Committee to support them.

I should very much like to thank my colleagues Cheryl Gillan MP and Keir Starmer QC MP for their excellent presentation of our joint case to their Lordships. I would also like to note the sterling work done by Kate Fairhurst and Kieran Sinclair, respectively Cheryl's and David Lidington's researchers, in preparing for the Lords Select Committee as well as thanking Tommy Gilchrist, in my own office. As ever, please do get in touch with me via him if we can be of any help – tommy.gilchrist@parliament.uk.