A REVIEW which could spell the end of the controversial HS2 project is a "test" of the government's commitment, says Greater Manchester's mayor.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps announced yesterday that the high speed link between London and the North would be reconsidered.

Billions have already been spent on design and planning, but Mr Shapps refused to rule out scrapping it entirely.

Regional mayor Andy Burnham said he was not opposed to a review, and was encouraged by the government's interest in an east-west high speed link, known as Northern Powerhouse Rail.

However, he called HS2 "vital" to "rebalancing our country's economy".

He added: "While I am not opposed to looking at how we can ensure HS2 delivers value for money, people in the North will be wary of this review.

"There is no elected representative from the North on the review team and, too often, government promises to the North have proved to be about as reliable as our trains.

"If we are not careful, this review could add uncertainty and confusion just when the North needs clarity."