HC Deb 28 March 1979 vol 965 cc455-6
25. Mr. Kenneth Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions he has had with his counterpart Ministers in the EEC on traffic problems which arise out of commercial vehicle cross-Channel transport.

Mr. William Rodgers

None lately.

Mr. Lewis

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware—I am sure that he is—that the vehicles now entering Britain are so numerous, heavy and large that they pose an environmental danger?

Mr. Rodgers

I am not sure that I heard the conclusion of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question, but I shall presume that I did. Yes, I am aware that many vehicles now entering Britain are heavy and large. It is the problem caused by heavy lorries from abroad, among others, that leads me to believe that the inquiry that I announced earlier should take place.

Mr. Adley

What is the latest situation on the Channel tunnel?

Mr. Rodgers

I have now received proposals from British Rail for a modified tunnel on the lines of which the House is aware. I am examining the proposals, and I shall be in a position to report later this year.