§ Mr. Speedasked the Secretary of State for Transport what is the longest delay to vehicles that has occurred so far at the Dartford tunnel central booth; and what is anticipated to be the longest delay when the M25 is completed and carrying peak traffic on this section.
§ Mrs. ChalkerThe tunnel is the responsibility of the Dartford tunnel joint committee and I do not have precise information on delays to traffic at the control booths. I understand, however, that delays of up to about 45 minutes occurred on some occasions in 1983 during the advance contract for the widening of the southern approach roads.
My Department has awarded 100 per cent. grants for the widening of the approach roads and the provision of additional toll booth capacity. These works, which will be undertaken by the Kent county council on behalf of the committee, should restrict delays to no more than is necessary for the actual payment of the toll charges.