Reports the planned high speed rail line would end in Birmingham - rather than continuing up to Manchester - have been circling for weeks, with sources telling Sky News on Monday the decision had been made.

But the prime minister has spent days dodging the question, only making the announcement as he gave the closing speech to this year's Conservative Party conference.

Read more: Live updates from the Tory Party conference - politics latest

In a nod to the HS2 announcement, Mr Sunak said: "change is difficult, particularly for those who disagree".

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.

Please refresh the page for the fullest version.

You can receive Breaking News alerts on a smartphone or tablet via the Sky News App. You can also follow @SkyNews on X or subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with the latest news.