I agree HS2 is madness.  Instead of always trying to get places faster, why not organise business better so less travel is actually needed?  In these days of super fast internet, meetings can be held without anyone moving from their desk.

Not sure about guards, Archie.  I think a train should have a member a staff to assist passengers, act in an emergency, discourage bad behaviour, fare dodging, etc.  We have a lot of people.  If we keep doing away with jobs, what employment will be left?  Machines can, of course, do lots of things, but humans still have a role to play.  Let’s not throw the baby out with the bath water.