Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment he has made of the health of saplings planted as part of HS2 mitigation measures; and what steps he is taking to ensure regular monitoring of those saplings.

HS2 Ltd has appointed an independent inspector responsible for checking the quality of cultivated plant material. Plant material is inspected twice a year, including a pre-delivery inspection of its size and quality. The independent inspector also carries out inspections of material delivered to sites to further confirm that it meets the required specifications. The inspector produces a report for each inspection, which includes recommendations for HS2 Ltd or its supply chain as necessary. Material is planted by the Early Works Contractors, who have the responsibility for regular inspection and maintenance during tree establishment, including the replacement of any defective or failed plant material.