UK Immigration Focus on UK Economy: During his visit to China on Thursday, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne is expected to open bidding for £12 billion ($18 billion) high-speed rail construction contracts, marking the latest effort to attract Chinese investment to the UK. Osborne will also seek Chinese support for a £24 billion investment plan for Northern England.
The UK government stated that it welcomes Chinese companies to partner with domestic UK firms to bid on seven contracts for the first phase of the high-speed rail project connecting Northern England, the Midlands, and London. In a statement released through his office, Osborne noted that the UK and China are entering a "golden era of cooperation."
Osborne is leading a delegation of senior officials and business representatives on a week-long visit to China, hoping to strengthen economic and trade cooperation between the two countries. The high-speed rail line will connect London to Birmingham, as well as the northern cities of Manchester and Leeds. The first phase is expected to be completed in 2026, with the second phase to be completed in 2033.
