HC Deb 11 June 1990 vol 174 cc61-2W
24. Mr. Anderson

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what consideration is being given to the effects of the channel tunnel on future rail and road investment.

Mr. Freeman

The effect of the channel tunnel on road investment is fully taken into account in the national roads programme. Planning and operation of rail services are matters for British Rail.

Mr. Fearn

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what security checks will passengers and baggage using the channel tunnel go through and at what point in the journey.

Mr. Freeman

The Government take very seriously the need to protect the Tunnel and those who will use it. A security check regime will be required. It would not be appropriate for me to disclose the details of the proposed security arrangements.

26. Ms. Ruddock

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what discussion he has had with British Rail on the route of the channel tunnel rail link.

35. Mr. Jacques Arnold

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he will make a statement on the current position in relation to plans for a high-speed rail link through Kent.

54. Mr. Gerald Bowden

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he last met the chairman of British Rail; and whether they discussed the channel tunnel rail link.

Mr. Freeman

Since November last year British Rail has been discussing the proposed channel tunnel high speed rail link with Eurorail Ltd. with a view to forming a joint venture. The parties have kept the Department in touch with progress and we are now considering their proposals.