birminghammail--2020-05-16--What Aston Villa favourite Thomas Hitzlsperger is up to now

If you mention the name ‘ Thomas Hitzlsperger ’ to fans of Aston Villa and West Ham United you ’ ll get one of two responses .
Villa fans remember ‘ Der Hammer ’ fondly after the German midfielder began his career with the club , racking up more than 100 games and scoring a few belting long-range goals .
At West Ham , things are a little more bittersweet : he was signed in the summer of 2010 but suffered a serious injury on international duty and couldn ’ t save the club from relegation despite scoring an impressive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cup .
Now 38 , the man with a rocket of a left foot - who also had a brief Premier League spell at Everton - is retired from playing still heavily involved in footballing matters after returning to his former club Stuttgart .
Hitzlsperger spent five seasons as a player with Stuttgart , winning the Bundesliga title with them in 2006/07 , and was welcomed back by Die Roten in February 2019 as they battled to stay in the Bundesliga .
That battle fell short , with the former champions losing to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but Hitzlsperger remained in his role as head of sport as the club prepared to push for a return to the top flight .
“ In Thomas we ’ re gaining an expert who brings both football expertise from his own recent playing career as well as the necessary leadership qualities , ” club president Wolfgang Dietrich said of the appointment .
In October , Hitzlsperger was appointed CEO of the German club , tasked with heading up “ the sport , business strategy and communication departments , ” There 's a quick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter .
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Google Play Store and App Store Hitzlsperger ’ s current role of CEO at VfB Stuttgart means he has been the voice of the club when it comes to on-field changes , and was involved in the appointment of head coach Tim Walter over the close-season .
However , while Walter was described as a “ perfect fit ” and won six of his first eight 2 .
Bundesliga games in charge , he was sacked in December , with Hitzlsperger having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days before Christmas , with the club third in the table .
“ People who know me will say that I ’ m a nice guy who does no harm to people .
But you can ’ t do that if you ’ re in this role , ” Hitzlsperger later told The Athletic .
“ You have to hurt people ’ s feelings sometimes , but there ’ s a way to do it so that you can retain the respect of those you work with.
” On the playing staff side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s watch include on-loan Liverpool defender Nat Phillips and former Paderborn midfielder Philipp Klement .
“ Over the past few weeks I 've had a lot of positive talks with Thomas Hitzlsperger and [ sporting director ] Sven Mislintat .
I quickly realised that I was determined to join VfB , regardless of the division they 're in , because I like the club 's long-term vision and the coach 's playing style , ” Klement said of the move .
In October , following his personal promotion , Hitzlsperger said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at every level , but needs to focus more on its strengths and gather more momentum in certain areas .
“ We have three main objectives : an immediate return to the Bundesliga , further development of our infrastructure – in particular the Mercedes-Benz Arena – and maintaining our strong financial position , ” the former midfielder added .
When the 2 .
Bundesliga was suspended amid the Coronavirus crisis , Stuttgart sat second in the table , with Walter ’ s replacement Pellegrino Matarazzo keeping the club on course for automatic promotion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caused problems of its own .
“ We will first inform the players in detail about the overall situation , and in particular the situation at VfB , ” Hitzlsperger told local paper Stuttgarter Zeitung when the league ’ s suspension first hit in March .
“ We want to show what contribution each individual can make in order to maintain the club 's ability to act as long as possible .
We will make every effort to survive this crisis together .
You can assume that I will go ahead with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announcement that the Bundesliga and 2 .
Bundesliga would return , Hitzlsperger has been one of a number of voices from within the game to have their say .
`` We have always emphasized the importance of continuing the season for football .
We are therefore pleased with the decision we made , ” he said , as per German outlet Kicker .
“ At the same time , we know the responsibility that comes with resuming the game .
We want this responsibility and we will do it justice and continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the given guidelines.
” Hitzlsperger has had to grow very quickly during his time back at Stuttgart , but even he probably wouldn ’ t have predicted quite how quickly .

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If you mention the name ‘Thomas Hitzlsperger’ to fans of Aston Villa and West Ham United you’ll get one of two responses.
Villa fans remember ‘Der Hammer’ fondly after the German midfielder began his career with the club, racking up more than 100 games and scoring a few belting long-range goals.
At West Ham, things are a little more bittersweet: he was signed in the summer of 2010 but suffered a serious injury on international duty and couldn’t save the club from relegation despite scoring an impressive 25-yarder on his debut in the FA Cup.
Now 38, the man with a rocket of a left foot - who also had a brief Premier League spell at Everton - is retired from playing still heavily involved in footballing matters after returning to his former club Stuttgart.
Hitzlsperger spent five seasons as a player with Stuttgart, winning the Bundesliga title with them in 2006/07, and was welcomed back by Die Roten in February 2019 as they battled to stay in the Bundesliga.
That battle fell short, with the former champions losing to Union Berlin in a promotion/relegation play-off, but Hitzlsperger remained in his role as head of sport as the club prepared to push for a return to the top flight.
“In Thomas we’re gaining an expert who brings both football expertise from his own recent playing career as well as the necessary leadership qualities,” club president Wolfgang Dietrich said of the appointment.
In October, Hitzlsperger was appointed CEO of the German club, tasked with heading up “the sport, business strategy and communication departments,”
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Hitzlsperger’s current role of CEO at VfB Stuttgart means he has been the voice of the club when it comes to on-field changes, and was involved in the appointment of head coach Tim Walter over the close-season.
However, while Walter was described as a “perfect fit” and won six of his first eight 2. Bundesliga games in charge, he was sacked in December, with Hitzlsperger having to tell him of the decision just days before Christmas, with the club third in the table.
“People who know me will say that I’m a nice guy who does no harm to people. But you can’t do that if you’re in this role,” Hitzlsperger later told The Athletic.
“You have to hurt people’s feelings sometimes, but there’s a way to do it so that you can retain the respect of those you work with.”
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On the playing staff side, those brought in under Hitzlsperger’s watch include on-loan Liverpool defender Nat Phillips and former Paderborn midfielder Philipp Klement.
“Over the past few weeks I've had a lot of positive talks with Thomas Hitzlsperger and [sporting director] Sven Mislintat. I quickly realised that I was determined to join VfB, regardless of the division they're in, because I like the club's long-term vision and the coach's playing style,” Klement said of the move.
In October, following his personal promotion, Hitzlsperger said: “VfB does not need a fresh start at every level, but needs to focus more on its strengths and gather more momentum in certain areas.
“We have three main objectives: an immediate return to the Bundesliga, further development of our infrastructure – in particular the Mercedes-Benz Arena – and maintaining our strong financial position,” the former midfielder added.
When the 2. Bundesliga was suspended amid the Coronavirus crisis, Stuttgart sat second in the table, with Walter’s replacement Pellegrino Matarazzo keeping the club on course for automatic promotion. However, the shutdown itself has caused problems of its own.
“We will first inform the players in detail about the overall situation, and in particular the situation at VfB,” Hitzlsperger told local paper Stuttgarter Zeitung when the league’s suspension first hit in March.
“We want to show what contribution each individual can make in order to maintain the club's ability to act as long as possible. We will make every effort to survive this crisis together. You can assume that I will go ahead with the subject of salary cuts.”
After the announcement that the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga would return, Hitzlsperger has been one of a number of voices from within the game to have their say.
"We have always emphasized the importance of continuing the season for football. We are therefore pleased with the decision we made,” he said, as per German outlet Kicker.
“At the same time, we know the responsibility that comes with resuming the game. We want this responsibility and we will do it justice and continue to pay very close attention to compliance with the given guidelines.”
Hitzlsperger has had to grow very quickly during his time back at Stuttgart, but even he probably wouldn’t have predicted quite how quickly.


birminghammail--2020-05-16--Man United forward could quit over Jude Bellingham transfer chase

Angel Gomes is refusing to sign a new contract at Manchester United , with the club ’ s approach of Jude Bellingham reported to be an issue .
The 19-year-old has been highly rated at Old Trafford for a number of years after making his breakthrough into the senior team at just 16 .
However , in recent years he has become concerned about the possible pathway to the first-team and has already refused one new contract .
United have been heavily linked with young , British players , with Birmingham City ’ s Bellingham believed to be a transfer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been given a tour of United ’ s Carrington training ground complex , with claims that he will be offered a first-team chance , should he make the switch .
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Google Play Store and App Store But , according to our colleagues at the Manchester Evening News , Gomes has reservations about the direction of the club and is willing to let his contract expire .
They report : “ United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the direction of the club since the start of the season but have targeted three similarly aged British talents in Jadon Sancho , Jack Grealish , and Jude Bellingham ahead of the next transfer window , which is believed to have discouraged Gomes.
” Gomes has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford , with Chelsea and Barcelona keen on bringing him in .
The United attacking midfielder has played just 19 minutes in the league this season , in stark contrast to Bellingham , who has played more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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Angel Gomes is refusing to sign a new contract at Manchester United, with the club’s approach of Jude Bellingham reported to be an issue.
The 19-year-old has been highly rated at Old Trafford for a number of years after making his breakthrough into the senior team at just 16.
However, in recent years he has become concerned about the possible pathway to the first-team and has already refused one new contract.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
United have been heavily linked with young, British players, with Birmingham City’s Bellingham believed to be a transfer priority.
The Blues midfielder has already been given a tour of United’s Carrington training ground complex, with claims that he will be offered a first-team chance, should he make the switch.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
But, according to our colleagues at the Manchester Evening News, Gomes has reservations about the direction of the club and is willing to let his contract expire.
They report: “United have assuaged some of Gomes's reservations about the direction of the club since the start of the season but have targeted three similarly aged British talents in Jadon Sancho, Jack Grealish, and Jude Bellingham ahead of the next transfer window, which is believed to have discouraged Gomes.”
Gomes has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford, with Chelsea and Barcelona keen on bringing him in.
The United attacking midfielder has played just 19 minutes in the league this season, in stark contrast to Bellingham, who has played more than 2,000 minutes under Pep Clotet this term.


birminghammail--2020-05-16--Jack Grealish's cheeky verdict on this moment of Aston Villa magic

Jack Grealish has been Aston Villa ’ s talisman for more than a year now .
It was the attacker ’ s return to the team towards the end of the 2018/2019 season which inspired Dean Smith ’ s men to make their historic play-off charge .
This season he ’ s silenced his critics on the field with a return of seven goals and a host of man of the match displays in a Villa team that hasn ’ t had everything his own way .
Sign up to your club 's newsletter here But while many are willing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the 24-year-old is willing to share them round – such as when he held a Q & A with Villa TV and was asked about the best goal he ’ d ever seen scored .
That came in the Championship – and was one that wasn ’ t even awarded goal of the season – John McGinn ’ s Sheffield Wednesday howitzer .
“ We always speak about that game and about two minutes before that goal , he passed the ball out of play and he was having a terrible game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was unbelievable , easily the best goal I ’ ve ever seen live .
I don ’ t know how I won Goal of the Season because that goal was out of this world .
“ I think it was the first game that his family came down to watch , and he scores a goal like that.
” As for his favourite assist ?
There have been six so far this season but the one that set up Conor Hourihane in the Boxing Day win over Norwich City sticks out .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he ’ s got such a wand of a left foot , ” Grealish added .
“ I just lay the ball off because I just know his ability is so good .
“ My favourite one is Norwich this season , it was a tough game and we had to win .
I went past [ Alex ] Tettey on the edge of the box and Conor was there , so I just set it nicely for him to finish first time , and it was a massive goal .
”

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Jack Grealish has been Aston Villa’s talisman for more than a year now.
It was the attacker’s return to the team towards the end of the 2018/2019 season which inspired Dean Smith’s men to make their historic play-off charge.
This season he’s silenced his critics on the field with a return of seven goals and a host of man of the match displays in a Villa team that hasn’t had everything his own way.
But while many are willing to give him all of the plaudits, the 24-year-old is willing to share them round – such as when he held a Q&A with Villa TV and was asked about the best goal he’d ever seen scored.
That came in the Championship – and was one that wasn’t even awarded goal of the season – John McGinn’s Sheffield Wednesday howitzer.
“We always speak about that game and about two minutes before that goal, he passed the ball out of play and he was having a terrible game,” Grealish said.
“It was unbelievable, easily the best goal I’ve ever seen live. I don’t know how I won Goal of the Season because that goal was out of this world.
“I think it was the first game that his family came down to watch, and he scores a goal like that.”
As for his favourite assist? There have been six so far this season but the one that set up Conor Hourihane in the Boxing Day win over Norwich City sticks out.
“One of the ones for Conor, he’s got such a wand of a left foot,” Grealish added. “I just lay the ball off because I just know his ability is so good.
“My favourite one is Norwich this season, it was a tough game and we had to win. I went past [Alex] Tettey on the edge of the box and Conor was there, so I just set it nicely for him to finish first time, and it was a massive goal.”


birminghammail--2020-05-16--Birmingham City striker Scott Hogan shares transfer wish

Scott Hogan has revealed his desire to sign for Birmingham City permanently .
The striker has been a hit at St Andrew 's after joining on loan from Aston Villa in the January transfer window .
He has scored seven goals in eight appearances having struck up a prolific partnership with Lukas Jutkiewicz .
Blues would love to convert his loan stint into a full-time arrangement and Hogan has opened the door for a move if the opportunity arises .
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We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Store He told BoyleSports : `` I have made friends there , they have made me feel at home so I will be happy to do it if it comes about . ''
Hogan cost Villa £12m from Brentford in 2017 having excelled under Dean Smith at Griffin Park but he did n't make a single Championship start under the B6 boss last season .
He finished the 2018/19 campaign at Sheffield United and started this one at Stoke City before being sent to Blues .
It 's all fallen into place under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 12 months remaining on his deal at Villa Park .
`` It ’ s gone really well , yeah , '' Hogan added .
`` I always thought I could do it but it ’ s just about getting regular games and I have not had that for two or three years now so it ’ s been tough .
`` I got off to a good start and it seems to have gone from there .
Personally I ’ ve done well but as a team we could have done better .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s put a stop to it but hopefully we can get back and I can carry on from where I left off .
`` Look , it ’ s totally out of my hands .
I think there are clauses in my contract with Villa and things like that that can stipulate what can happen .
`` With what has gone on at the moment , I ’ ve had calls with my agent about things and we ’ ve both come to the agreement that we need to get this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hopefully finish the season .
`` Because of the pandemic we haven ’ t been able to get out of the house .
It can be stressful just being in the house and I just want to switch off and not have to worry or hope to get back to football .
`` So , I haven ’ t really thought about anything like that because at the moment it ’ s not in my hands .
I ’ ve still got another year left at Villa . ''

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Scott Hogan has revealed his desire to sign for Birmingham City permanently.
The striker has been a hit at St Andrew's after joining on loan from Aston Villa in the January transfer window.
He has scored seven goals in eight appearances having struck up a prolific partnership with Lukas Jutkiewicz.
Blues would love to convert his loan stint into a full-time arrangement and Hogan has opened the door for a move if the opportunity arises.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
He told BoyleSports: "I have made friends there, they have made me feel at home so I will be happy to do it if it comes about."
Hogan cost Villa £12m from Brentford in 2017 having excelled under Dean Smith at Griffin Park but he didn't make a single Championship start under the B6 boss last season.
He finished the 2018/19 campaign at Sheffield United and started this one at Stoke City before being sent to Blues.
It's all fallen into place under Pep Clotet for the 28-year-old who has 12 months remaining on his deal at Villa Park.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
"It’s gone really well, yeah," Hogan added. "I always thought I could do it but it’s just about getting regular games and I have not had that for two or three years now so it’s been tough.
"I got off to a good start and it seems to have gone from there. Personally I’ve done well but as a team we could have done better.
"What’s happened happened and it’s put a stop to it but hopefully we can get back and I can carry on from where I left off.
"Look, it’s totally out of my hands. I think there are clauses in my contract with Villa and things like that that can stipulate what can happen.
"With what has gone on at the moment, I’ve had calls with my agent about things and we’ve both come to the agreement that we need to get this stuff out of the way and then hopefully finish the season.
"Because of the pandemic we haven’t been able to get out of the house. It can be stressful just being in the house and I just want to switch off and not have to worry or hope to get back to football.
"So, I haven’t really thought about anything like that because at the moment it’s not in my hands. I’ve still got another year left at Villa."


birminghammail--2020-05-16--What life is really like in fearful community blighted by gang violence

Teens attacked with machetes , shops smashed up and a man left with serious injuries .
Welcome to Caldmore in Walsall .
Residents from the nearby community told BlackCountryLive the area had become a hotbed for crime between rival gangs .
Their claims emerged after the windows of K2 Pizza and Peri Peri restaurant in Caldmore Green were smashed by an armed gang at around 5pm on Thursday , May 14 .
This attack was at least the third in Caldmore in the last six months , while there have also been several brawls involving armed gangs in the area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with serious injuries after being found in Corporation Street , Walsall , at around 9.30pm on Thursday , April 23 .
And a 15-year-old boy was also struck with a machete on Caldmore Road on Monday , March 2 .
Police said officers were keeping an open mind as to potential links between the latest incident and others .
The West Midlands force said : `` Investigations are in the early stages and at this point we are not currently linking this incident to any other attacks at the property , however we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all possibilities . ''
West Midlands Police set up an operation dedicated to stopping the violence after a spate of incidents between December and February , which officers put down to an ongoing feud .
An ex-gang member was also drafted in by police to tackle rising tension and violence between rival groups .
Supt Andy Parsons , from Walsall Police , said officers were carrying out a number of initiatives to try to combat the issue .
But a Caldmore Road resident – who would not be named – said people were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had done nothing to ease tensions .
`` This seems to be getting bad to worse and the police – including the council – need to deal with this .
`` We are feeling scared and intimidated as , lockdown or no lockdown , there are groups hanging around drinking and being anti-sociable .
`` I ’ m afraid to say Caldmore has made me and my family feel more unsafe then I was in my home country in Eastern Europe .
`` There are many crime-related issues in Caldmore .
Time for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Another told reporters the street violence was 'getting out of control ' .
Police originally said a gun was fired towards the shop in the latest incident but have later said there was no confirmed gunfire .
A statement from police , issued on Friday , May 15 , said : `` Investigations remain ongoing following criminal damage at a shop on Caldmore Green , Walsall , just before 5pm yesterday .
`` There has been no confirmed firearms discharge and CCTV is being reviewed .
`` Anyone with information can contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quoting log 3235 of May 14 . ''

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Teens attacked with machetes, shops smashed up and a man left with serious injuries.
Welcome to Caldmore in Walsall.
Residents from the nearby community told BlackCountryLive the area had become a hotbed for crime between rival gangs.
Their claims emerged after the windows of K2 Pizza and Peri Peri restaurant in Caldmore Green were smashed by an armed gang at around 5pm on Thursday, May 14.
This attack was at least the third in Caldmore in the last six months, while there have also been several brawls involving armed gangs in the area.
A man was taken to hospital with serious injuries after being found in Corporation Street, Walsall, at around 9.30pm on Thursday, April 23.
And a 15-year-old boy was also struck with a machete on Caldmore Road on Monday, March 2.
Police said officers were keeping an open mind as to potential links between the latest incident and others.
The West Midlands force said: "Investigations are in the early stages and at this point we are not currently linking this incident to any other attacks at the property, however we are keeping an open mind and investigating all possibilities."
West Midlands Police set up an operation dedicated to stopping the violence after a spate of incidents between December and February, which officers put down to an ongoing feud.
An ex-gang member was also drafted in by police to tackle rising tension and violence between rival groups.
Supt Andy Parsons, from Walsall Police, said officers were carrying out a number of initiatives to try to combat the issue.
But a Caldmore Road resident – who would not be named – said people were scared by the violence and the lockdown had done nothing to ease tensions.
"This seems to be getting bad to worse and the police – including the council – need to deal with this.
"We are feeling scared and intimidated as, lockdown or no lockdown, there are groups hanging around drinking and being anti-sociable.
"I’m afraid to say Caldmore has made me and my family feel more unsafe then I was in my home country in Eastern Europe.
"There are many crime-related issues in Caldmore. Time for change or lives are at risk."
Another told reporters the street violence was 'getting out of control'.
Police originally said a gun was fired towards the shop in the latest incident but have later said there was no confirmed gunfire.
A statement from police, issued on Friday, May 15, said: "Investigations remain ongoing following criminal damage at a shop on Caldmore Green, Walsall, just before 5pm yesterday.
"There has been no confirmed firearms discharge and CCTV is being reviewed.
"Anyone with information can contact us via Live Chat on our website quoting log 3235 of May 14."


birminghammail--2020-05-16--Fears for city homeless after pandemic eases

More than 450 homeless people in Birmingham have seen out the pandemic in emergency hotels , hostels , flats and B & B rooms as part of an extraordinary effort to keep them safe , city leaders have revealed .
Around 70 of them , mainly rough sleepers , have been living in a city centre hotel that was transformed 'overnight ' into a homeless provision in an unprecedented effort to save lives .
Now fears are mounting that vital extra cash and support from the government is about to disappear .
Cllr Sharon Thompson , who leads on homelessness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ letter to Robert Jenrick , Communities Minister , urging clarification about the government 's plans amid media reports it is axing the extra help - claims the minister denies .
She said it would be catastrophic if it turned out to be the case .
“ Over the course of the pandemic , Birmingham City Council , staff , partners and volunteers across the city , have worked hard to help transition some of our city ’ s most vulnerable from sleeping rough to moving indoors , '' she said in her letter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the teams out on the frontlines and in our support services to achieve this level of success in just six weeks ... we are hoping to build on this .
However , this is contingent on government financial support .
`` We are urgently seeking information on any changes to national policy around rough sleeping , as well as adjoining issues that affect homelessness such as support for people with no recourse to public funds and the local housing allowance , ” her letter adds .
She had already written earlier this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Andy Street and neighbouring councils who make up the West Midlands Homelessness Taskforce , urging the Government to act quickly .
The aim is to ensure rough sleepers are not pushed back on to the streets once the health emergency subsides .
The city 's strategic lead for rough sleepers , Stephen Philpott , said : `` Due to great teamwork we achieved in two weeks what we would expect to take years - getting pretty much everyone into safe , supported accommodation .
`` The Government 's strategy has a target of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a chance to do that sooner .
This is a start .
We do n't want to throw that chance away . ''
He also praised the incredible response of staff and rough sleepers , many of whom had responded in `` extraordinary '' ways .
`` We have asked people , often with many issues to contend with , to isolate , to move away from their support networks , to live in a single room and hardly go out , and they have responded brilliantly ; and the staff have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeing very positive outcomes too . ''
This has included homeless drug addicts who have taken up rehab help for the first time in years , he said .
The numbers needing help are staggering .
In the ten weeks since the start of March , 1,448 people have sought advice about homelessness .
Some only required financial or housing advice , others needed emergency accommodation and some were rough sleepers .
Cllr Thompson , who also chairs the WMCA members advisory group said : “ We need to recognise that this is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to ending homelessness .
`` Our outreach teams across the region have done a fantastic job in explaining to rough sleepers the impact of Coronavirus and supporting them into accommodation .
“ We now need the support from Government to ensure that no one is dumped back on to the streets when the pandemic ends and that resource is available to keep some of our most vulnerable people on this positive pathway and helped into a healthier lifestyle.
” Sadly , one person who was homeless has died due to Covid-19 , while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ill with the virus , said Cllr Thompson .
But the rate of infections has been exceptionally low , given the underlying ill health of many of those involved .
Andy Street , the Conservative Mayor of the West Midlands , said : “ Local authorities have done a superb job in protecting our most vulnerable and offering accommodation to every single rough sleeper in the region during this incredibly difficult period , but it is clear there are still some issues that we need to work through with Government .
“ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the crisis and work with ministers on how we could use this unprecedented situation as an opportunity to keep rough sleepers off the streets and take a significant step forward in the fight against homelessness in the West Midlands.
” There are particular concerns that those who do n't normally qualify for council help but have been accommodated during the pandemic - including failed asylum seekers waiting for appeals , or economic EU migrants - will be left destitute .
Fears are also mounting that the number of homeless overall is going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the pandemic hits workers , renters and the most deprived in the city - and that 's without also taking account of the risk of a feared pandemic 'second wave ' in the autumn .
What Birmingham City Council has done to keep homeless people safe An unprecedented effort was launched in late March when the Government declared it wanted local councils to `` get everyone in . ''
In a letter to councils at the end of March , homeless minister Luke Hall even gave councils a deadline , telling them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is now imperative that rough sleepers and other vulnerable homeless are supported into appropriate accommodation by the end of the week . ''
He added : `` We know that this requires funding ... '' before going on to say councils should use some of the £1.6 billion that had just been shared between councils to respond to the pandemic .
What happened next was , in essence , the council appeared to `` solve '' rough sleeping over night .
A total of 457 people who presented as homeless as an emergency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 23 and in the weeks since have been accommodated .
Normal rules about who did and did not qualify for help were waived - the requirement was simply to 'get everyone in . '
A total of 1,148 people since March 1have also asked for help from the city council because they are , or fear they will soon be , homeless .
Among the initiatives set up were : The city 's only dormitory-style night shelter , at that time housing six men , was closed down , deemed too risky - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ created 'emergency hotel ' in the city , said Stephen Philpott , who has spent 30 years working in homeless services .
The hotel was contracted by the council and wholly given over to the operation .
The six men were joined by about 50 rough sleepers and other vulnerable homeless single people .
At its peak there were 77 people housed there ; currently there are 46 .
Residents are in their own ensuite rooms , receive three meals a day and specialist staff provide round the clock help with addictions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Those who move out have usually been found alternative longer term accommodation , including tenancies .
`` Most people have been willing to be helped , many having seen their income from the street with the usually generous passers-by virtually disappear since lockdown , '' said Stephen .
`` Many homeless people are in poor health with a life expectancy of just 45 , and really fear the virus .
And , why not take the opportunity to get off the street with the promise of a decent bed for the night , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Luxury compared to life on the streets . ''
Outreach workers , already known to the city 's regular rough sleeper population , worked closely with them , he said .
There have been all sorts of success stories along the way - including a drug addict , on the streets for years , who had rejected all previous attempts to help him , now in his sixth week of rehab treatment , said Mr Philpott .
Nearly all rough sleepers took up with offer , though an estimated `` 10 to 15 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where they receive daily support from outreach teams .
`` We want them to come in but if not we are providing regular support and checking on their needs . ''
Cllr Thompson praised the exceptional dedication of staff who are supporting those left on the streets and living alongside residents to provide 24/7 support and keep them safe .
`` This has been a tremendous achievement , '' she said .
Stephen writes about his experiences overseeing rough sleepers during lockdown in a blog here .
In other homeless and temporary accommodation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their distance and avoid infection , following Public Health England guidance , says the council .
Anyone with symptoms was offered a place in self contained accommodation .
Support services have also been ramped up - even allowing for staff illness and absences .
Cllr Thompson added : `` Before the pandemic , resources were already stretched and so , with staff themselves becoming ill , it has meant that this has become an even greater issue .
`` While the Government has provided additional funding during this crisis , we need this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can carry on providing this level of support to some of our most vulnerable . ''
The city 's emergency hostel , Washington Court , in Washington Street in the city centre , accommodates around 100 people aged over-25 , often with complex needs and addictions .
It is often a first port of call for people who need help , who are then moved into more suitable , longer term accommodation .
Nearby residents in flats opposite the complex have recently reported incidents of anti social behaviour - including one involving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were increasingly concerned at escalating disorder coming from Washington Court .
One retail worker , who would not be named , reeled off a host of alleged issues at the property and said : `` It 's like a war zone sometimes , you ca n't hear yourself think .
The lockdown has made it worse . ''
Mr Philpott said : `` The hostel has been there and operating for a long time , before the flats were built , providing emergency accommodation to people who are homeless .
Many have complex @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them safe and well , and staff encourage social distancing as much as possible .
`` These people are currently living in single rooms , for hour after hour , so inevitably they will want to be outside for some of the time .
`` The hostel 's staff are working closely with the police who provide daily support .
We understand the concerns of residents and the staff are working exceptionally hard to manage the situation . ''
He added there had been other incidents in the city centre and in outlying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` With a shortage of people to rely on for money , with a reduced footfall , we have had incidents of people with addictions being more desperate and more aggressive , and the police have worked with us on that .
`` But by and large , given the scale of the problems people have , it has been very positive . ''

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More than 450 homeless people in Birmingham have seen out the pandemic in emergency hotels, hostels, flats and B&B rooms as part of an extraordinary effort to keep them safe, city leaders have revealed.
Around 70 of them, mainly rough sleepers, have been living in a city centre hotel that was transformed 'overnight' into a homeless provision in an unprecedented effort to save lives.
But fears are mounting that vital extra cash and support from the government is about to disappear.
Coun Sharon Thompson, who leads on homelessness in the city, has written to Robert Jenrick, Communities Minister, urging clarification about the government's plans amid media reports it is axing the extra help - claims the minister denies.
She said it would be catastrophic if it turned out to be the case.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
The Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Govenment said it was working closely with a new taskforce to keep rough sleepers off the streets after the pandemic ends.
“Over the course of the pandemic, Birmingham City Council, staff, partners and volunteers across the city, have worked hard to help transition some of our city’s most vulnerable from sleeping rough to moving indoors," Coun Thompson said in her letter.
"It has taken enormous dedication from the teams out on the frontlines and in our support services to achieve this level of success in just six weeks...we are hoping to build on this. However, this is contingent on government financial support.
"We are urgently seeking information on any changes to national policy around rough sleeping, as well as adjoining issues that affect homelessness such as support for people with no recourse to public funds and the local housing allowance,” her letter adds.
She had already written earlier this week, jointly with West Midlands mayor Andy Street and neighbouring councils who make up the West Midlands Homelessness Taskforce, urging the Government to act quickly.
The aim is to ensure rough sleepers are not pushed back on to the streets once the health emergency subsides.
The city's strategic lead for rough sleepers, Stephen Philpott, said: "Due to great teamwork we achieved in two weeks what we would expect to take years - getting pretty much everyone into safe, supported accommodation.
"The Government's strategy has a target of ending rough sleeping by 2024. We have a chance to do that sooner. This is a start. We don't want to throw that chance away."
He also praised the incredible response of staff and rough sleepers, many of whom had responded in "extraordinary" ways.
"We have asked people, often with many issues to contend with, to isolate, to move away from their support networks, to live in a single room and hardly go out, and they have responded brilliantly; and the staff have done an amazing job. We are seeing very positive outcomes too."
(Image: Birmingham Mail/Darren Quinton)
This has included homeless drug addicts who have taken up rehab help for the first time in years, he said.
The numbers needing help are staggering. In the ten weeks since the start of March, 1,448 people have sought advice about homelessness. Some only required financial or housing advice, others needed emergency accommodation and some were rough sleepers.
Coun Thompson, who also chairs the WMCA members advisory group said: “We need to recognise that this is a rare tipping point on the road to ending homelessness.
"Our outreach teams across the region have done a fantastic job in explaining to rough sleepers the impact of Coronavirus and supporting them into accommodation.
“We now need the support from Government to ensure that no one is dumped back on to the streets when the pandemic ends and that resource is available to keep some of our most vulnerable people on this positive pathway and helped into a healthier lifestyle.”
(Image: Rob Browne)
Sadly, one person who was homeless has died due to Covid-19, while another homeless resident has recovered after being ill with the virus, said Cllr Thompson.
But the rate of infections has been exceptionally low, given the underlying ill health of many of those involved.
Andy Street, the Conservative Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Local authorities have done a superb job in protecting our most vulnerable and offering accommodation to every single rough sleeper in the region during this incredibly difficult period, but it is clear there are still some issues that we need to work through with Government.
“We also need to begin to look past the crisis and work with ministers on how we could use this unprecedented situation as an opportunity to keep rough sleepers off the streets and take a significant step forward in the fight against homelessness in the West Midlands.”
There are particular concerns that those who don't normally qualify for council help but have been accommodated during the pandemic - including failed asylum seekers waiting for appeals, or economic EU migrants - will be left destitute.
Fears are also mounting that the number of homeless overall is going to rocket this year as the financial impact of the pandemic hits workers, renters and the most deprived in the city - and that's without also taking account of the risk of a feared pandemic 'second wave' in the autumn.
An MHCLG spokesperson said: “Councils in the West Midlands should be proud of their efforts to get rough sleepers off the street, backed by an unprecedented package of support for local government.
“Our new rough sleeping taskforce - spearheaded by Dame Louise Casey - will work hand-in-hand with councils across the country on plans to ensure rough sleepers can move into long-term, safe accommodation once the immediate crisis is over – ensuring as many people as possible move to long-term, stable accommodation.
“We will continue to prioritise and support this effort and have provided £3.2 billion to councils to deal with immediate pressures, including supporting rough sleepers.”
What Birmingham City Council has done to keep homeless people safe
An unprecedented effort was launched in late March when the Government declared it wanted local councils to "get everyone in."
In a letter to councils at the end of March, homeless minister Luke Hall even gave councils a deadline, telling them in no uncertain terms: "It is now imperative that rough sleepers and other vulnerable homeless are supported into appropriate accommodation by the end of the week."
He added: "We know that this requires funding..." before going on to say councils should use some of the £1.6 billion that had just been shared between councils to respond to the pandemic.
What happened next was, in essence, the council appeared to "solve" rough sleeping over night.
A total of 457 people who presented as homeless as an emergency, or were rough sleeping on March 23 and in the weeks since have been accommodated. Normal rules about who did and did not qualify for help were waived - the requirement was simply to 'get everyone in.'
A total of 1,148 people since March 1have also asked for help from the city council because they are, or fear they will soon be, homeless.
Among the initiatives set up were:
City 'homeless hotel'
The city's only dormitory-style night shelter, at that time housing six men, was closed down, deemed too risky - and its residents moved into a newly created 'emergency hotel' in the city, said Stephen Philpott, who has spent 30 years working in homeless services.
The hotel was contracted by the council and wholly given over to the operation. The six men were joined by about 50 rough sleepers and other vulnerable homeless single people. At its peak there were 77 people housed there; currently there are 46.
Support staff from the now-closed night shelter helped provide wraparound support.
Residents are in their own ensuite rooms, receive three meals a day and specialist staff provide round the clock help with addictions, emotional, practical and other support.
Those who move out have usually been found alternative longer term accommodation, including tenancies.
"Most people have been willing to be helped, many having seen their income from the street with the usually generous passers-by virtually disappear since lockdown," said Stephen.
"Many homeless people are in poor health with a life expectancy of just 45, and really fear the virus. And, why not take the opportunity to get off the street with the promise of a decent bed for the night, food delivered and decent washing facilities? Luxury compared to life on the streets."
Outreach workers, already known to the city's regular rough sleeper population, worked closely with them, he said.
There have been all sorts of success stories along the way - including a drug addict, on the streets for years, who had rejected all previous attempts to help him, now in his sixth week of rehab treatment, said Mr Philpott.
Nearly all rough sleepers took up with offer, though an estimated "10 to 15" have stayed on the streets, where they receive daily support from outreach teams. "We want them to come in but if not we are providing regular support and checking on their needs."
Cllr Thompson praised the exceptional dedication of staff who are supporting those left on the streets and living alongside residents to provide 24/7 support and keep them safe.
"This has been a tremendous achievement," she said.
Stephen writes about his experiences overseeing rough sleepers during lockdown in a blog here.
Other homeless hostels, temporary flats and B&Bs
In other homeless and temporary accommodation, residents have been helped to keep their distance and avoid infection, following Public Health England guidance, says the council.
Anyone with symptoms was offered a place in self contained accommodation. Support services have also been ramped up - even allowing for staff illness and absences.
Cllr Thompson added: "Before the pandemic, resources were already stretched and so, with staff themselves becoming ill, it has meant that this has become an even greater issue.
"While the Government has provided additional funding during this crisis, we need this to continue in the future so that we can carry on providing this level of support to some of our most vulnerable."
Washington Court
The city's emergency hostel, Washington Court, in Washington Street in the city centre, accommodates around 100 people aged over-25, often with complex needs and addictions.
It is often a first port of call for people who need help, who are then moved into more suitable, longer term accommodation.
(Image: BBC)
Nearby residents in flats opposite the complex have recently reported incidents of anti social behaviour - including one involving dozens of police. They said they were increasingly concerned at escalating disorder coming from Washington Court.
One retail worker, who would not be named, reeled off a host of alleged issues at the property and said: "It's like a war zone sometimes, you can't hear yourself think. The lockdown has made it worse."
Mr Philpott said: "The hostel has been there and operating for a long time, before the flats were built, providing emergency accommodation to people who are homeless. Many have complex needs.
"We need to keep them safe and well, and staff encourage social distancing as much as possible.
(Image: BBC)
"These people are currently living in single rooms, for hour after hour, so inevitably they will want to be outside for some of the time.
"The hostel's staff are working closely with the police who provide daily support. We understand the concerns of residents and the staff are working exceptionally hard to manage the situation."
He added there had been other incidents in the city centre and in outlying areas, particularly around aggressive begging.
"With a shortage of people to rely on for money, with a reduced footfall, we have had incidents of people with addictions being more desperate and more aggressive, and the police have worked with us on that.
"But by and large, given the scale of the problems people have, it has been very positive."


birminghammail--2020-05-16--HS2 programme was in 'significant difficulty' - but MPs say they were not told

HS2 bosses have been `` blindsided by contact with reality '' with the project `` badly off course '' , according to MPs .
In a report published by Westminster 's Public Accounts Committee ( PAC ) , fresh concerns have been raised by MPs over both the transparency and handling of the project .
The Government has now been urged to give `` regular , accurate and open updates '' on problems faced by the project , which will run high-speed trains between Birmingham and London .
Among its conclusions , the Committee said that the Department for Transport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lack of transparency had `` undermined public confidence in the programme '' .
It also stated that the appearance of DfT Permanent Secretary Bernadette Kelly and HS2 Ltd executives , CEO Mark Thurston and chief financial officer Michael Bradley , before the Committee in March also `` raised questions about the previous picture provided by the witnesses of the project 's health '' .
The report read : `` The Department and HS2 Ltd were aware of the scale of the issues facing the programme as early as October 2018 .
`` In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Department that it could not deliver Phase One to budget and schedule .
`` Despite being aware of these issues , the Permanent Secretary withheld from us that the programme was in significant difficulty when she appeared before the previous Committee in October 2018 and May 2019 , even in response to specific questions about the programme 's delivery timeline and budget .
`` HS2 Ltd 's annual report and accounts for the year ending March 31 2019 similarly failed to give an accurate account of the programme 's problems .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actions , stating there were commercial sensitivities , and options were still being pursued to remedy the situation . ''
It added : `` While we recognise that ministers had not yet decided how to proceed , no adequate excuse was provided for not disclosing to this Committee and Parliament the risk and uncertainty the programme was facing .
`` We are disappointed by the Permanent Secretary 's response to our concerns about her failure to explicitly inform the Committee of the programme 's delays and overspend when asked about the general health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Labour MP Meg Hillier , accused the Government of having made a `` wealth of mistakes '' over major transport infrastructure .
She said : `` There is no excuse for hiding the nature and extent of the problems the project was facing from Parliament and the taxpayer .
`` The Department and HS2 appear to have been blindsided by contact with reality - when Phase One started moving through Parliament , the predicted costs of necessary commitments to the communities affected have exploded from £245 million to £1.2 billion .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mistakes on major transport infrastructure to learn from , but it does not give confidence that it is finally going to take those lessons when this is its approach . ''
She added : `` In the six-monthly reports the Department has now agreed to give us , we want to see an honest , open account , and evidence of learning from past mistakes being applied to bring this project under control , to deliver it within the timeline and budget that have been agreed in justifying the project . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown , said that the PAC was `` in the dark '' about serious cost overruns .
He said : `` This PAC report on HS2 is one of the most critical , in both the transparency of Government and the handling of a project , that I have seen in my nine years in total on the committee .
`` The Permanent Secretary appeared before the committee in October 2018 and again in May 2019 .
In March 2019 , HS2 Ltd formally told the Department it had breached the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be unable to deliver the programme to cost and schedule - yet the Permanent Secretary did not inform the committee on either appearance that the programme was in trouble .
`` This is a serious breach of the department 's duty to Parliament and hence to the public , which as the report says , will undermine confidence .
Furthermore , the PAC was in the dark about serious cost overruns and was therefore unable to do its duty to inform Parliament that value for money on the project was at risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blamed partly on the speed that the hybrid Bill committee for Phase One proceeded with .
I was a member of that committee , which lasted for 20 months : this is complete nonsense . ''
Responding to the report , a DfT spokesperson said : `` The current Secretary of State has been clear that this project must go forward with a new approach to Parliamentary reporting , with clear transparency , strengthened accountability to ministers , and tight control of costs .
`` We have comprehensively reset the HS2 programme , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with significant reforms to ensure the project is delivered in a more disciplined and transparent manner .
`` This includes appointing the first dedicated HS2 minister , bi-annual updates to Parliament and establishing a monthly ministerial task force , chaired by the Secretary of State , to ensure the project has a rigorous scrutiny like the 2012 Olympics . ''
The DfT statement added : `` The Permanent Secretary acknowledged in May 2019 that there were cost pressures that the Department and HS2 Ltd were working to address in line with government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were active and commercially confidential . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Lewis McKenzie, PA Political Staff, James Cartledge)

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HS2 bosses have been "blindsided by contact with reality" with the project "badly off course", according to MPs.
In a report published by Westminster's Public Accounts Committee (PAC), fresh concerns have been raised by MPs over both the transparency and handling of the project.
The Government has now been urged to give "regular, accurate and open updates" on problems faced by the project, which will run high-speed trains between Birmingham and London.
Among its conclusions, the Committee said that the Department for Transport (DfT) and HS2 Ltd's lack of transparency had "undermined public confidence in the programme".
It also stated that the appearance of DfT Permanent Secretary Bernadette Kelly and HS2 Ltd executives, CEO Mark Thurston and chief financial officer Michael Bradley, before the Committee in March also "raised questions about the previous picture provided by the witnesses of the project's health".
The report read: "The Department and HS2 Ltd were aware of the scale of the issues facing the programme as early as October 2018.
"In March 2019, HS2 Ltd formally notified the Department that it could not deliver Phase One to budget and schedule.
"Despite being aware of these issues, the Permanent Secretary withheld from us that the programme was in significant difficulty when she appeared before the previous Committee in October 2018 and May 2019, even in response to specific questions about the programme's delivery timeline and budget.
"HS2 Ltd's annual report and accounts for the year ending March 31 2019 similarly failed to give an accurate account of the programme's problems.
"The Department and HS2 Ltd defended their actions, stating there were commercial sensitivities, and options were still being pursued to remedy the situation."
It added: "While we recognise that ministers had not yet decided how to proceed, no adequate excuse was provided for not disclosing to this Committee and Parliament the risk and uncertainty the programme was facing.
"We are disappointed by the Permanent Secretary's response to our concerns about her failure to explicitly inform the Committee of the programme's delays and overspend when asked about the general health of the project."
(Image: Handout)
Committee chair, Labour MP Meg Hillier, accused the Government of having made a "wealth of mistakes" over major transport infrastructure.
She said: "There is no excuse for hiding the nature and extent of the problems the project was facing from Parliament and the taxpayer.
"The Department and HS2 appear to have been blindsided by contact with reality - when Phase One started moving through Parliament, the predicted costs of necessary commitments to the communities affected have exploded from £245 million to £1.2 billion.
"The Government unfortunately has a wealth of mistakes on major transport infrastructure to learn from, but it does not give confidence that it is finally going to take those lessons when this is its approach."
She added: "In the six-monthly reports the Department has now agreed to give us, we want to see an honest, open account, and evidence of learning from past mistakes being applied to bring this project under control, to deliver it within the timeline and budget that have been agreed in justifying the project."
The Committee's deputy chair, Conservative MP Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, said that the PAC was "in the dark" about serious cost overruns.
(Image: Birmingham Mail/Darren Quinton)
He said: "This PAC report on HS2 is one of the most critical, in both the transparency of Government and the handling of a project, that I have seen in my nine years in total on the committee.
"The Permanent Secretary appeared before the committee in October 2018 and again in May 2019. In March 2019, HS2 Ltd formally told the Department it had breached the terms of the Development Agreement, and would be unable to deliver the programme to cost and schedule - yet the Permanent Secretary did not inform the committee on either appearance that the programme was in trouble.
"This is a serious breach of the department's duty to Parliament and hence to the public, which as the report says, will undermine confidence. Furthermore, the PAC was in the dark about serious cost overruns and was therefore unable to do its duty to inform Parliament that value for money on the project was at risk.
"The cost overruns have been blamed partly on the speed that the hybrid Bill committee for Phase One proceeded with. I was a member of that committee, which lasted for 20 months: this is complete nonsense."
Responding to the report, a DfT spokesperson said: "The current Secretary of State has been clear that this project must go forward with a new approach to Parliamentary reporting, with clear transparency, strengthened accountability to ministers, and tight control of costs.
"We have comprehensively reset the HS2 programme, introducing a revised budget and funding regime, with significant reforms to ensure the project is delivered in a more disciplined and transparent manner.
"This includes appointing the first dedicated HS2 minister, bi-annual updates to Parliament and establishing a monthly ministerial task force, chaired by the Secretary of State, to ensure the project has a rigorous scrutiny like the 2012 Olympics."
The DfT statement added: "The Permanent Secretary acknowledged in May 2019 that there were cost pressures that the Department and HS2 Ltd were working to address in line with government policy at the time. Those discussions were active and commercially confidential."


birminghammail--2020-05-16--The incredible fact which shows Wolves live by Nuno's key demand

Prior to the breakout of COVID-19 , it had been an impressive season for Wolves .
They currently occupy a place in the Premier League ’ s top six and are just two points off fifth , a position that should confirm Champions League qualification for next season .
This is impressive when considering that they have had to juggle the demands of the Europa League throughout the course of the campaign too .
Yet despite this strong season , there is an area of their game that sees them rank bottom in the Premier League , and it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Santo .
Nuno ’ s men have managed to score the opening goal in just seven of their 29 league matches so far this season , whilst conceding the first goal themselves 18 times .
As we can see , no team has a worse record in this department .
While Nuno is n't thrilled by his team 's knack of giving opponents a head start , he has spoken glowingly about their ability to fight back in the face of adversity .
Speaking after watching his team come from two goals down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ When you can abandon a game , we didn ’ t do it .
The credit is for the boys , the fans who after we give them one goal they start pushing us and we won the game.
” Nuno 's desire to play 90 minutes with the maximum physical and mental intensity is more often than not carried out by his players .
But how important is the first goal in football ?
Beyond getting your side off to a good start , how much does it really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it usually proves to be a decisive factor .
In fact , numerous football studies conclude that scoring the game 's opening goal will lead to victory roughly 70 per cent of the time - which is obviously high .
Therefore you would imagine that this is something that Nuno will be eager to rectify .
Whilst the above is an area of Wolves ’ game that needs to improve , their obvious abilities to bounce back from initial setbacks after going a goal behind is a huge positive and illustrates the character @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conferences .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store So far this season , Wolves ' opponents have taken the lead against them on 24 occasions - this constitutes scoring the game 's opening goal , like above , or taking the lead whilst the game is at a score draw stage .
Of those 24 times , Nuno ’ s men have found an equaliser on 18 occasions , which is impressive and ranks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , their record when taking the lead is even more impressive .
Of the 11 times Wolves have taken the lead this season , either scoring first or taking the lead whilst the game is at a score draw stage , they have conceded an equaliser just once .
Whilst we can label them as the Premier League comeback kings this season , they ’ re just as skilled at shutting out their opponents after going ahead .
Therefore , if Wolves can eradicate the sloppy mistakes which have resulted in them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will lead to even more points on the board and fire the club to the next level .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (David Alexander Hughes)

Prior to the breakout of COVID-19, it had been an impressive season for Wolves.
They currently occupy a place in the Premier League’s top six and are just two points off fifth, a position that should confirm Champions League qualification for next season. This is impressive when considering that they have had to juggle the demands of the Europa League throughout the course of the campaign too.
Yet despite this strong season, there is an area of their game that sees them rank bottom in the Premier League, and it’s something that concerns manager Nuno Espírito Santo.
Nuno’s men have managed to score the opening goal in just seven of their 29 league matches so far this season, whilst conceding the first goal themselves 18 times. As we can see, no team has a worse record in this department.
While Nuno isn't thrilled by his team's knack of giving opponents a head start, he has spoken glowingly about their ability to fight back in the face of adversity.
Speaking after watching his team come from two goals down to beat Southampton in January, Nuno said: “When you can abandon a game, we didn’t do it. The credit is for the boys, the fans who after we give them one goal they start pushing us and we won the game.”
Nuno's desire to play 90 minutes with the maximum physical and mental intensity is more often than not carried out by his players.
But how important is the first goal in football? Beyond getting your side off to a good start, how much does it really impact the result?
Well unsurprisingly, it usually proves to be a decisive factor. In fact, numerous football studies conclude that scoring the game's opening goal will lead to victory roughly 70 per cent of the time - which is obviously high. Therefore you would imagine that this is something that Nuno will be eager to rectify.
Whilst the above is an area of Wolves’ game that needs to improve, their obvious abilities to bounce back from initial setbacks after going a goal behind is a huge positive and illustrates the character Nuno often alludes to in his press conferences.
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So far this season, Wolves' opponents have taken the lead against them on 24 occasions - this constitutes scoring the game's opening goal, like above, or taking the lead whilst the game is at a score draw stage. Of those 24 times, Nuno’s men have found an equaliser on 18 occasions, which is impressive and ranks amongst the best in the division.
However, their record when taking the lead is even more impressive. Of the 11 times Wolves have taken the lead this season, either scoring first or taking the lead whilst the game is at a score draw stage, they have conceded an equaliser just once.
Whilst we can label them as the Premier League comeback kings this season, they’re just as skilled at shutting out their opponents after going ahead. Therefore, if Wolves can eradicate the sloppy mistakes which have resulted in them conceding first on so many occasions it will lead to even more points on the board and fire the club to the next level.


birminghammail--2020-05-16--Wesley pounds streets of Brazil as Aston Villa recovery continues

Aston Villa 's crocked striker Wesley is back running for the first time since tearing his knee ligament on New Year 's Day .
The 23-year-old has been pounding the streets in his hometown of Juiz de Fora back in Brazil as he steps up his recovery , watch it above .
Wesley 's currently working alongside sports physiotherapist Cristiano Davila who , two months ago , checked into Bodymoor Heath to meet Villa 's medical staff .
Davila has been putting Wesley through his paces with a selection of muscle work , pool running and balance drills .
Just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Instagram : `` After four months of surgery , we performed a fully functional evaluation .
We evaluate mobility , stability , strength , power , among other aspects .
`` The result was very surprising and encouraging .
We are on the right way !
WESLEY IS COMING BACK !
We continue ! ''
Today , meanwhile , Wesley has been road running - albeit it gingerly - outside his home in Juiz de Fora .
`` Another successful week , '' Davila captioned , showing Wesley back running .
`` 12th @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , thank you my brother for the confidence in my work !
We continue with our goals .
Everything has its own time , and there is time for the whole purpose under heaven . ''
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Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Villa news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Speaking of his career-ending injury , Wesley said : `` I did n't even want to know the severity ( of the injury ) .
I was having a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did n't want to know at that time .
`` The doctor explained to me that I broke my ligaments .
I kept crying every day , worried , I would even play ball again .
But my family supported me . ''
After an operation , the striker had to wait eight weeks before he could fly home for recovery , which is something Smith said was vital .
`` I 'm really pleased he was able to get across to Brazil , '' explained Villa 's head coach , `` because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the operation .
`` He could n't travel for a while because we 'd normally want them to go and be around their loved ones for a period straight away after the operation but it took a while .
`` I think he had to wait about eight weeks before he got out there .
He 's back with his loved ones and he 's working with a physio who is in touch with our medical department daily .
`` He 's following a really good routine and it 's nice to see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working and giving him that time to go and recover and heal . ''
Wesley , who scored six goals prior to that devastating injury , explained how being back at home during the lockdown period is `` priceless '' .
`` Things are much better around the family , '' he said .
`` It is priceless to be close to the family and my mother , especially .
`` She always encouraged me a lot after the loss of my father , supported me in my dream of playing football .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ me a lot .
When I was in pain , she would support me and say , 'You are going to get over this , get over it . '
And it will be like that . ''
Ahead of his long-awaited return , Wesley added : `` I ca n't wait to play again .
I keep watching the games re-runs .
I saw our match against Arsenal , a 2-2 draw .
`` I wanted to play , recover as quickly as possible to bring joy to the Aston Villa fans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and also to return to the national team , which is the main team . ''
Wesley has been de-registered from Villa 's 2019/20 Premier League squad and , due to the striker currently being in Brazil hit hard by the pandemic , complexities surrounding him traveling back to the UK while injured suggest the £22million record-buy is not in contention for a dramatic return to action - even if the Premier League is delayed into the summer .

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Aston Villa's crocked striker Wesley is back running for the first time since tearing his knee ligament on New Year's Day.
The 23-year-old has been pounding the streets in his hometown of Juiz de Fora back in Brazil as he steps up his recovery, watch it above.
Wesley's currently working alongside sports physiotherapist Cristiano Davila who, two months ago, checked into Bodymoor Heath to meet Villa's medical staff.
Davila has been putting Wesley through his paces with a selection of muscle work, pool running and balance drills.
Just three days ago, Davila posted on Instagram: "After four months of surgery, we performed a fully functional evaluation. We evaluate mobility, stability, strength, power, among other aspects.
"The result was very surprising and encouraging. We are on the right way! WESLEY IS COMING BACK! We continue!"
Today, meanwhile, Wesley has been road running - albeit it gingerly - outside his home in Juiz de Fora.
"Another successful week," Davila captioned, showing Wesley back running. "12th Monday of work together! Once again, thank you my brother for the confidence in my work! We continue with our goals. Everything has its own time, and there is time for the whole purpose under heaven."
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Speaking of his career-ending injury, Wesley said: "I didn't even want to know the severity (of the injury). I was having a good time, scoring goals, I didn't want to know at that time.
"The doctor explained to me that I broke my ligaments. I kept crying every day, worried, I would even play ball again. But my family supported me."
After an operation, the striker had to wait eight weeks before he could fly home for recovery, which is something Smith said was vital.
"I'm really pleased he was able to get across to Brazil," explained Villa's head coach, "because he had a couple of complications after the operation.
"He couldn't travel for a while because we'd normally want them to go and be around their loved ones for a period straight away after the operation but it took a while.
"I think he had to wait about eight weeks before he got out there. He's back with his loved ones and he's working with a physio who is in touch with our medical department daily.
"He's following a really good routine and it's nice to see him back walking and in the pool working and giving him that time to go and recover and heal."
Wesley, who scored six goals prior to that devastating injury, explained how being back at home during the lockdown period is "priceless".
"Things are much better around the family," he said. "It is priceless to be close to the family and my mother, especially.
"She always encouraged me a lot after the loss of my father, supported me in my dream of playing football. In this recovery, she is helping me a lot. When I was in pain, she would support me and say, 'You are going to get over this, get over it.' And it will be like that."
Ahead of his long-awaited return, Wesley added: "I can't wait to play again. I keep watching the games re-runs. I saw our match against Arsenal, a 2-2 draw.
"I wanted to play, recover as quickly as possible to bring joy to the Aston Villa fans, who have always supported me, and also to return to the national team, which is the main team."
Wesley has been de-registered from Villa's 2019/20 Premier League squad and, due to the striker currently being in Brazil hit hard by the pandemic, complexities surrounding him traveling back to the UK while injured suggest the £22million record-buy is not in contention for a dramatic return to action - even if the Premier League is delayed into the summer.


birminghammail--2020-05-16--Holly Willoughby enjoys Zoom video call with celeb pals

This Morning presenter Holly Willoughby has been hard at work over lockdown , but made the most of her day off on Friday , by organising a Zoom catch-up with her celeb friends .
Holly had a virtual giggle with former Spice Girl Emma Bunton and All Saints singer Nicole Appleton .
The TV star added a pic of the Zoom hangout on Instagram , captioning the post : `` Oh I miss these faces so much ... apart and yet totally connected ... miss mygirls ... @ ruby1kid @ shishib @ emmaleebunton # nikidemetz `` The famous trio were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manager Niki de Metz and Shiarra Bell , head of artist relations at Universal Music .
Several followers commented on how fresh faced Holly looked without a scrap of makeup on .
Zoom has become a very popular online platform in recent weeks - as a way to keep connected with friends and family while social distancing measures stay in place .
Earlier this year , Emma partied with Holly and Nicole for Holly 's 39th birthday .
And last year Nicole and Holly supported Emma at the Spice Girls reunion concer t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher for several years before their bitter split in 2014 .
In March when she gave birth to a baby girl with new partner Stephen Haines , Holly was one of the first to congratulate her .
Usually their documented catch-ups - like most fun outings with friends - involve good food and drink .
In December , the girls ( minus Nicole and with Holly 's other 'girl squad ' member Christine Lampard ) enjoyed a posh Champagne-fuelled lunch on board the iconic Belmond British Pullman train .

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This Morning presenter Holly Willoughby has been hard at work over lockdown, but made the most of her day off on Friday, by organising a Zoom catch-up with her celeb friends.
Holly had a virtual giggle with former Spice Girl Emma Bunton and All Saints singer Nicole Appleton.
The TV star added a pic of the Zoom hangout on Instagram, captioning the post: "Oh I miss these faces so much... apart and yet totally connected... miss mygirls... @ruby1kid @shishib @emmaleebunton #nikidemetz "
The famous trio were with joined by other friends, PR manager Niki de Metz and Shiarra Bell, head of artist relations at Universal Music.
Several followers commented on how fresh faced Holly looked without a scrap of makeup on.
Zoom has become a very popular online platform in recent weeks - as a way to keep connected with friends and family while social distancing measures stay in place.
Earlier this year, Emma partied with Holly and Nicole for Holly's 39th birthday. And last year Nicole and Holly supported Emma at the Spice Girls reunion concer t in London.
Nicole was married to Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher for several years before their bitter split in 2014. In March when she gave birth to a baby girl with new partner Stephen Haines, Holly was one of the first to congratulate her.
Usually their documented catch-ups - like most fun outings with friends - involve good food and drink.
In December, the girls (minus Nicole and with Holly's other 'girl squad' member Christine Lampard) enjoyed a posh Champagne-fuelled lunch on board the iconic Belmond British Pullman train.


birminghammail--2020-05-16--Lockdown bust-up sees woman arrested and told to 'sober up' in cell

Police were forced to intervene after a bust-up at a country park on the first weekend of lockdown easing .
@ @ @ @ @ disturbance at Highgate Common in Swindon , south Staffordshire , on Saturday afternoon , May @ @ @ @ @ unlimited time outdoors .
A woman was arrested on suspicion of being in charge of @ @ @ @ @ influence of drugs or alcohol , Staffordshire Police said .
She failed a breath test @ @ @ @ @ was taken into police custody after the incident .
Police seized a Toyota at the @ @ @ @ @ on the back of a tow truck and shared on social media .
She was @ @ @ @ @ sober up ' as officers posted news of her arrest on Twitter .
Staffordshire Police @ @ @ @ @ of a disturbance at Highgate Common Swindon this afternoon , female arrested for being in @ @ @ @ @ whilst unfit through drink or drugs .
`` Currently in custody having failed station breath @ @ @ @ @ sober up in the cells . ''

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Police were forced to intervene after a bust-up at a country park on the first weekend of lockdown easing.
Officers were called to a disturbance at Highgate Common in Swindon, south Staffordshire, on Saturday afternoon, May 16 as visitors enjoyed the unlimited time outdoors.
A woman was arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, Staffordshire Police said.
She failed a breath test, they said, and was taken into police custody after the incident.
Police seized a Toyota at the scene - which was pictured on the back of a tow truck and shared on social media.
She was told it was 'time to sober up' as officers posted news of her arrest on Twitter.
Staffordshire Police said: "Following reports of a disturbance at Highgate Common Swindon this afternoon, female arrested for being in charge of a motor vehicle whilst unfit through drink or drugs.
"Currently in custody having failed station breath test.
"Time to sober up in the cells."