§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects passenger services via the channel tunnel to operate along the east coast main line; whether designs for power-cars and rolling stock for such services have been finalised; and when he expects orders for this rolling stock to be placed.
§ Mr. FreemanBritish Rail expects to start operating international daytime services on the east coast main line towards the end of 1995. The dedicated trainsets for these services were ordered in December 1991.
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§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will place in the Library a map showing the rail route, together with speed restrictions, to be followed from the east coast main line to Kensington Olympia for onward service to the channel tunnel; if he will outline all track and signalling works necessary for this route to be followed, stating in each case when such works are to be, or were started, and when they will be completed.
§ Mr. FreemanThese are operational matters for British Rail. The Department does not hold the information requested.
§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects freight services via the channel tunnel to operate along the east coast main line; whether locomotives for such services have been ordered; and when they are expected to begin service.
§ Mr. FreemanThe dedicated class 92 locomotives are on order and are due to be delivered from the autumn of 1994. The railways should, however, be in a position to run international freight trains from the time the tunnel opens by using other locomotives to provide traction through the tunnel.