§ Ms. RuddockTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what measures will be taken to minimise the impact of the international trains using existing track in south London during the period between the opening of the channel tunnel and completion of the rail link.
§ Mr. FreemanBritish Rail is replacing sections of jointed rail by continuously welded rail, eliminating the familiar wheel-on-joint noise of the traditional railway, and will use electric traction for all international trains. Both the passenger and freight trains will be powered by electric traction built to the latest noise specification applicable at the time the tenders were invited, and the new 253W international wagons will also have to meet stringent noise specifications. In addition, as I announced on 19 June, British Rail and Kent county council are discussing what can be done to implement the council's proposals for protecting against noise the homes likely to be worst affected along the Kent stretches of the lines. British Rail is willing to hold talks on a corresponding basis with any other local authority whose area is likely to be similarly affected.