Yesterday those who oppose the short tunnel spoke with great competence, passion and authority causing the chairman to repeatedly appeal to the floor in an undignified manner for contrary opinions “for balance”.
In the end the vote was narrowly lost. However it was notable that

  1. The Trust failed to acknowledge or explain that supporting the short tunnel was against the advice of UNESCO and most prominent archaeologists
  2. The Trust admitted it hasn’t taken advice from international planners.
  3. The Trust failed to admit or explain to Members Britain’s treaty undertaking that Outstanding Universal Value is inviolable and can’t be amended for local convenience.

The Trust’s behaviour during the meeting and those three omissions appear to have damaged both its case and its reputation – with Donald Trump surely being in the minds of many present. It remains to be seen whether it will now reflect on the fact.