What Is Royal Assent? What Does It Mean for HS2?

Following the recent news we covered regarding the Royal Assent for HS2 we have taken a look at just what it is and what it means for High Speed 2.

So what is royal consent?

Royal Assent is the formal approval given by the reigning monarch of a country to a proposed law passed by the legislative body, typically a parliament or congress. In constitutional monarchies like the United Kingdom and Canada, Royal Assent is a necessary step for a bill to become law. While in modern times it’s largely a ceremonial act, historically it was a more active part of the legislative process, allowing the monarch to veto legislation. However, in most constitutional monarchies today, the monarch’s role is largely symbolic, and royal assent is granted as a matter of course.

“Once a bill has completed all the parliamentary stages in both Houses, it is ready to receive royal assent. This is when the Queen formally agrees to make the bill into an Act of Parliament (law).

There is no set time period between the conclusion of consideration of amendments/ping pong and royal assent.” Official definition from the UK Parliament.

What Happens After One Is Given?

The new law, once given the go-ahead within the bill, may come into effect either immediately, after a specific period, or on the commencement order of a government minister.

“A commencement order is designed to bring into force the whole or part of an Act of Parliament at a date later than the date of the royal assent… If there is no commencement order, the Act will come into force from midnight at the start of the day of the royal assent.” – Parliament.

So, what does this mean?

Now that the Royal Assent has been given, it means that the final legislative step has passed before the full civil works can begin. The announcement paves the way for the 9-year construction programme to finally take place between London and Birmingham.

In light of the news, Transport Secretary Chris Grayling spoke about the move by saying, “‘HS2 will be the world’s most advanced passenger railway and the backbone of our rail network”, said Mr. Grayling. “Royal Assent is a major step towards significantly increasing capacity on our congested railways for both passengers and freight, improving connections between the biggest cities and regions, and generating jobs, skills, and economic growth.”

HS2 Phase 1 was initially predicted to cost a staggering £21.4 billion, although in June 2016, this was revised to £27.4 billion.  The route will span a total of 225km and will link London with Birmingham and the West Coast Main Line near Lichfield. Offering an anticipated journey time of 49 minutes between London and Birmingham compared to a standard timing of 1 hour and 24 minutes for current inter-city services. Now that HS2 Phase 1 has been given the green light, its aim is to relieve the busy West Coast Main Line by taking most of the express services between London, Birmingham, Northwest England, and Scotland.

Despite the construction having been years in waiting, work is now likely to start next spring after final consultations are undertaken and contractors are confirmed.  It is predicted that the first HS2 trains will run in 2026.

As always, if you would like to discuss how the recent announcement effects and impacts you, please feel free to contact the Roger Hannah & Co team here.