HC Deb 16 January 1989 vol 145 cc21-2W
Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make it his policy to call in any application to locate the second London terminal for the Channel tunnel at King's Cross.

Mr. Chope

The usual means of proceeding with the development of new railway schemes is by private Bill procedure. It is British Rail's intention to use this procedure for the development of the second London terminus for the Channel tunnel at King's Cross. There would, therefore, be no planning application for my right hon. Friend to call in.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment 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. Chope

None. It is for the promoters to put forward proposals.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what environmental impact studies have been made by his Department on the siting of the second London terminal for the Channel tunnel; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Chope

None. However, I would expect any Select Committee to take the environmental aspects of a second London terminus at King's Cross into account when considering a private Bill.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment 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.

Mr. Chope

None.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will name the organisations which have expressed an opinion in favour of(a) Stratford, (b) King's Cross, and (c) another site, as the preferred location for the second London terminal for the Channel tunnel.