HC Deb 16 January 1989 vol 145 cc101-2W
Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what degree of private sector involvement he anticipates will be involved in the construction of(a) the second London terminal for the Channel tunnel and (b) the fast rail link between the tunnel and terminal through Kent.

Mr. Portillo

This remains to be seen. But I would like to see a significant degree of such involvement in both projects.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is his policy with regard to British Rail having sole determination of the location of the second London terminal for the Channel tunnel; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Portillo

Government subsidy to British Rail in connection with its Channel tunnel services is prohibited by section 42 of the Channel Tunnel Act 1987. British Rail cannot be expected to choose a location for its second London terminal which it does not consider to be in its best commercial interests based on passenger needs. British Rail's proposal will of course need my approval and that of Parliament.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what representations have been made to his Department against the possible location of the second London terminal for the Channel tunnel at King's Cross;

(2) what representations he has received in favour of (a) Stratford and (b) King's Cross for the location of the second London terminal for the Channel tunnel.

Mr. Portillo

In addition to representations from the hon. Member, I have received a number of representations from local authorities and other interested bodies in favour of Stratford, and again King's Cross, as the site for a second London terminal. Equally, I have received a number of representations from hon. Members and others in the north of England who favour King's Cross as against Stratford on the ground that it will make possible better links to the north. I have explained to all those who have made representations that the choice is British Rail's responsibility.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when the consultants were appointed to consider the feasibility of Stratford as a location for the second London terminal for the Channel tunnel; and when they are due to present their report.

Mr. Portillo

I am aware that British Rail has carried out such an assessment, but I do not yet have details.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what information he has regarding the estimated cost of construction of a second London terminal for the Channel tunnel at (a) Stratford and (b) King's Cross.

Mr. Portillo

I understand that it is British Rail's view that a terminal at King's Cross would cost more than one at Stratford, but would be more commercially viable because of its more central location.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects the second London terminal for the Channel tunnel to be operational; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Portillo

It is too early to say.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what contribution has been made by his Department to the selection process for the site of the second London terminal for the Channel tunnel; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Portillo

None, but the investment will need Government approval and Parliament will consider the necessary Bill.