HC Deb 26 October 1882 vol 274 cc170-1
SIR HARRY VERNEY

asked the President of the Board of Trade, Whether it is true, as has been reported, that Headings of the tunnel or tunnels under the Straits of Dover are being driven with increased rapidity from the French side towards the British Coast; and, whether our Government will remonstrate with that of France with a view to obtain the stoppage of such works?

MR. CHAMBERLAIN

Sir, I have no official information with regard to facts alleged to have taken place in connection with the works of the Channel Tunnel on the French Coast. In fact, I have no other information than what I have gathered from the newspapers. But my hon. and gallant Friend need not be under any apprehension that the Tunnel will be built without the consent and against the will of this country. Under these circumstances, it would not be useful or even dignified for Her Majesty's Government to remonstrate with the French Government upon the matter.