HC Deb 03 May 1978 vol 949 cc216-7
7. Mr. Rost

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions are taking place on fresh proposals to construct a Channel Tunnel.

Mr. William Rodgers

I am not aware of any such discussions. I am certainly involved in none.

Mr. Rost

Does the Minister agree that a direct Channel rail link could assist the viability not only of British Rail but of the Continental railway system and would therefore involve less public subsidy, apart from the longer-term energy conservation considerations? Will he give an assurance that if the EEC puts forward proposals for such a direct link, even if it is only a one-rail link, he will consider it seriously and put such proposals before the House for discussion?

Mr. Rodgers

It probably would be in the interests of British Rail and Continental railways for there to be a fixed link between this country and the Continent. I am sure that this is in the minds of those responsible at British Rail. On the other hand, as I have previously made clear to the House, the Government's position has not changed. We cannot contemplate such a large increase in public expenditure at present, but were there to be any proposals from the European Community or elsewhere I would be prepared to consider them. I am sure that the House would also want to discuss them.

Mr. Bagier

Will my right hon. Friend use his position in the Cabinet to press for a share of the North Sea oil profits to go towards this very desirable infrastructure? Is he not aware that practically every trunk route survey which has taken place with regard to Europe and Britain has shown that whereas connections between the various Continental capitals are very good, we are separated from them by the sea? Will he fight more forcibly for the money to build this desirable piece of infrastructure?

Mr. Rodgers

Any expenditure on building a Channel Tunnel means that that money cannot be spent elsewhere. I could not argue that a Channel Tunnel should be at the top of the list of present priorities. However, I take my hon. Friend's point. I am sure that all those who have a direct interest in such a link will be doing research on how it can best be accomplished and will be making their views clearly known.

Mr. Costain

Will the Minister clarify the position regarding the machine which was designed to dig the Channel Tunnel? We understand that the machine was up for sale. Is it still for sale or has it been withdrawn from the market?

Mr. Rodgers

If the hon. Gentleman wants to make a bid for it, it will be acceptable for him to do so. The problem—it has been raised before in the House—is that were the construction of a Channel Tunnel to go ahead at some time, the best judgment is that that machine is not a piece of equipment which could then be used.