HC Deb 28 April 1971 vol 816 c399
6. Mr. Sheldon

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will publish a White Paper on the proposed Channel Tunnel.

The Under-Secretary of State for the Environment (Mr. Eldon Griffiths)

I would refer the hon. Member to the answers given to him on 10th and 31st March.—[Vol. 813, c. 400–1; Vol. 814, c. 1472–4.]

Mr. Sheldon

Is the Minister aware that what is causing concern is that this private group is already committed to a real project? As a result, it may well be that a roadway, through a tunnel or some other link, will not be examined, as it has not been examined over the past nine years, during which time there has been considerable progress towards the study of these problems. Is the Minister further aware that this particular study group will have its costs completely reimbursed if it does not go ahead with the scheme? What sort of risk taking is this?

Mr. Griffiths

The hon. Gentleman will be aware of the communiqué which my right hon. Friend and the French Minister of Transport Industries issued after their meeting in London. I think that that speaks for itself.

Hon. Members

Answer the question.