§ Mr. Milneasked the Minister of Transport if he will make a statement on the proposed increase in toll charges for the 205W Tyne Tunnel, following the Tunnel Authority's recommendation to him for a reduction in toll charges.
Mr. Bob BrownThe revision of tolls is governed by the Tyne Tunnel Act 1960. In considering the scale of charges my right hon. Friend has a statutory duty to be satisfied that toll revenue will be sufficient to meet expenditure, as defined in the Act, and to repay loans we have made within a period of 30 years.
The Tyne Tunnel Committee published proposals for revised tolls in the early part of this year whichwould involve reductions for private cars and light vehicles. These have been under consideration: and in discussion with the Joint 'Tunnel Committee a possible alternative schedule involving increases for these vehicles has been tabled by the Ministry.
No decisions as to future toll levels will be taken until interested persons and bodies have had an opportunity, in accordance with the provisions of the Act, to make representations to my right hon. Friend.