Reeves highlighted the HS2 saga as an example of the Conservative’s failure on handling major projects and confirmed an independent enquiry into the scheme’s problems.

She said: “By the time the government even recognised they had a problem, the project was already £30 billion over budget. How was it ever allowed to get to that point?

“If I were in the Treasury, I would have been on the phone to the Chief Executive of HS2 non-stop; Demanding answers – and solutions – on behalf of taxpayers, businesses, and commuters.

“When it comes to getting things built and projects delivered, Britain has become the sick man of Europe.

“I will not tolerate taxpayers’ money being treated with the disrespect we have seen over recent years.

“I will not turn a blind eye to dither, delay and incompetence.

“I will hold those responsible to account. And I will demand action when they are not delivering value for money.”

Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones will be going over existing major projects “line by line” to cut out waste.

Reeves added: “The Tories would have you believe we can’t build anything in Britain anymore.

“In fact, the single biggest obstacle to building infrastructure, to investment and to growth in this country is the Conservative Party itself.”