§ Mr. Cordleasked the Minister of Transport what means of protection against the effects of flooding or dense smoke her Department proposes to save travellers in a Channel Tunnel; and what is her estimate of the cost of Mr. Jervis's proposals for cost saving including the 13 trains and six modified platforms needed to carry total present traffic, with three platforms 1,000 feet long in each country.
§ Mr. John Morris:We expect the preparation of final specifications for the Tunnel to be the task of the joint Anglo-French operating body, when it is set 376W up. The specification would, however, be subject to the approval of the two governments, notably in respect of safety measures. No estimate has been made by the Department of the cost of Mr. Jervis's proposals; we do not consider that the expense of a detailed study of them would be justified.
§ Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Minister of Transport if, in view of the need for economy in public expenditure, she will delay work on the Channel Tunnel until the economic situation is satisfactory.
§ Mr. John Morris:No. Planning for the tunnel is proceeding on the assumption that the bulk of the finance would be raised in the private sector. Major expenditure is not expected to be incurred before 1970–71.