A recent HS2 straw poll tells us that the majority of business leaders don’t know what to think.

Communications failed to explain the benefits of the new train line. The costs, the route and potential disruption have dominated the conversation.

Few facts have emerged about alternatives or the implications of doing nothing. Comparisons have been made with road-building, which is equally expensive and disruptive. Who could now imagine the North being dependent just on the A1 for long-distance travel?

We need a clearer understanding of the facts about HS2.

On the economy, all but two members in recent soundings had seen an upturn in their business’s fortunes, which is great. However, profit margins don’t appear to be increasing, so everyone is trying to avoid additional costs.

The impact of pension auto-enrolment on small and medium firms is an issue. No-one disputes that contributing to a pension fund is a good thing, but as more employees begin to take up the benefit, costs to companies will increase.

Some believe if extra money is to be spent on employer pension contributions, then the amount available for pay increases will be reduced or eliminated.

The benefits package will improve overall, but businesses and individuals will have to commit additional money into their pensions.