Graham Evans MP slammed the Stop HS2 campaign in the House of Commons

His comments were based on what was said in a letter by Philip Hammond, which he sent to all Members of Parliament, after Stop HS2 sent each MP an email invitation to their convention.

Read the letter from Philip Hammond

Says Lizzy Williams Chairman of STOP HS2

"As soon as I saw the report of Mr Evans offensive accusations I contacted his office to ask for an explanation of his actions. I made it very clear that his comments were offensive, unprofessional and unbecoming of a Member of Parliament.

To react like that to an invitation to a national debate hosted by STOP HS2 is incredible. His comments are completely unacceptable and completely ungrounded.

If he truly wanted to play a part in this national issue his best response would have been to accept the invitation to the convention and participate in the question and answer sessions available throughout the day.

After talking to Mr Evan’s office I was astounded to receive a copy of a “Dear Colleague” letter from Phillip Hammond dated 09 February to all MPs advising members that our invitation made “incorrect statements”.

STOP HS2 contests that accusation fully and confirms it sees nothing in Mr Hammond’s letter that provides evidence to prove this. We would be delighted to see a backbench debate on this subject.

We would like to thank Mr Evans and Mr Hammond for highlighting our concerns regarding the High Speed 2 project.

We would also urge people to attend the STOP HS2 National Convention which includes various, completely independent speakers and exhibitors, including the Tax Payers Alliance.

STOP HS2 concludes from Mr Hammond’s actions that he is beginning to feel cornered by STOP HS2 and we are very pleased about that.

Throwing personal insults is about all he has left as we have highlighted the weakness of the business case, the complete absence of environmental case and that HS2 is a complete waste of tax payers money when we can least afford it.

STOP HS2’s core aim has always been to promote debate on the issues surrounding HS2 and the Convention is being held to encourage national involvement in the impending public consultation"