HC Deb 04 July 1988 vol 136 cc478-9W
Mr. Tony Lloyd

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is his policy towards the use of on-train customs clearance; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

Section 12 of the Channel Tunnel Act 1987 requires on-train controls on Channel tunnel trains to and from destinations to the north of London, on condition that British Rail provides facilities which are acceptable to the frontier control authorities. For those trains which will terminate at Waterloo, the Government's view is that the most convenient and practicable option will he a quick and effective airport-type control at Waterloo.

Mr. Tony Lloyd

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if his Department has made an assessment of the economic impact of disallowing the use of on-train customs clearance for trains using the Channel tunnel.

Mr. David Mitchell

The Government are in no position to disallow on-train controls for those trains serving destinations to the north of London, provided that the conditions in section 12 of the Channel Tunnel Act are met.

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