HC Deb 24 March 1993 vol 221 cc604-5W
Mr. Spearing

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what changes in design or alignment he expects over those sections of the newly proposed fast rail route from London to the channel tunnel following an alignment and design already announced; and if he will give the reason for each such change.

Mr. Freeman

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport made a statement on the rail link on 22 March. Details of the route for consultation, the changes made in refining the route and the reasons for the changes are contained in the Union Railways report and other material deposited in the Vote Office.

Mr. Spearing

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will estimate the approximate capital sum, at 1993 prices, which he expects will be required to construct the fast channel rail link from St. Pancras to Cheritan; and by what means he expects a return on such sums to be achieved.

Mr. Freeman

The estimated cost of the link is about £2.5 billion, towards which some Government support will be available in respect of domestic passenger benefits. Main sources of income will be fares, track charges and ancillary revenues.