HL Deb 20 December 1962 vol 245 cc1237-8

2.40 p.m.

LORD GLADWYN

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the second Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

[The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they agree that it would be highly undesirable to reach any final decision as regards the nature of a permanent Channel Link until it is apparent whether or not the United Kingdom is to become a member of the European Economic Community.]

LORD CHESHAM

My Lords, a decision on whether a fixed Link should be provided, or on its nature, Will depend on many factors. It would be unwise to predict at this stage what weight should attach to any single one of them. But I can assure the noble Lord that Her Majesty's Government, for their part, when the time comes for a decision, will take account of the probable future growth of cross-Channel traffic and all the various factors affecting it, including the United Kingdom's relationship to the European Economic Community.

LORD GLADWYN

But, my Lords, surely the Government appreciate the fact that, if we go into the Common Market, not only will the traffic across the Channel increase materially but it will also be possible to place the whole scheme for the bridge under the aegis of the Commission in Brussels, and thus transfer it from a purely Anglo-French affair into a great Community project?

LORD CHESHAM

My Lords, I do not think I can add to what I have said, except to say that the considerations which are envisaged by our joining the Common Market are certainly one of the things being taken into consideration.

LORD WILLIAMS OF BARNBURGH

My Lords, in view of the last question, may I ask the noble Lord which way the traffic will increase—to or from?

LORD CHESHAM

My Lords, I think that is a question that requires further official study.

VISCOUNT ALEXANDER OF HILLS-BOROUGH

Have not the British Government already had such experience of pressure groups that they ought always to be aware of them?

THE LORD PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL AND MINISTER FOR SCIENCE (VISCOUNT HAILSHAM)

Yes, my Lords, even if they come from the Opposition Front Bench.