HL Deb 04 November 1992 vol 539 cc123-4WA
Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What liability towards passengers in the Channel Tunnel is being required of the operators; specifically whether there are any limitations on their liability; if so, what are these limitations; how these limitations have been decided and by whom; and whether any conditions bear on them.

The Minister of State, Department of Transport (The Earl of Caithness)

The liability of Eurotunnel to passengers it carries will depend on whether English or French law applies. No new legal provision affecting liability under English (or French) law is at present contemplated. Under the Unfair Terms of Contract Act Eurotunnel's liability for death or injury will be unlimited.

Liability to passengers on the inter-capital through trains, to be operated by BR and SNCF, will be determined by the convention concerning international carriage by rail. The effect of the convention on such liability is under consideration.

Lord Sefton of Garston

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What will be the regional share of any investment which will be made when they decide to "go for growth".

The Earl of Caithness

The Chancellor of the Exchequer will announce details of the public expenditure plans in his Autumn Statement. Tight control of public expenditure remains essential.