Transport Secretary Mark Harper said he was 'proud' of the decision to cut HS2 to Manchester - and shrugged off criticism from ex-Tory Prime Minister David Cameron and former Chancellor George Osborne.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak used his speech at the Conservative Party conference on Wednesday to confirm he has axed Phases 2a and 2b of the high-speed railway.
Mr Cameron said the decision would fuel the view that Britain is 'heading in the wrong direction', while Mr Osborne stated he agreed with that opinion.
Mr Harper told Sky News: "They're absolutely entitled to their opinion. "I worked closely with both of them in government and was very proud to serve with them.
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