§ Mr. Chapmanasked the Secretary of State for Energy whether he is yet in a position to give final investment approval to the Central Electricity Generating Board's proposed 2,000 mw cross-Channel link with Electricité de France.
§ Mr. David HowellI have today given the CEGB final investment approval for the cross-Channel link, initially for the first 1,000 mw stage. Approval for the second 1,000 mw stage will be given in step with French Government approval.
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment and I have decided to examine an alternative cable route before a final decision is reached 677W on the CEGB's proposal to build the converter station for the link at Sellindge, Kent. We have asked the board to proceed urgently with this work so that a decision on its planning application can be taken as quickly as possible.