East London River Crossing

HC Deb 18 May 1993 vol 225 cc90-1W

Mr. Austin-Walker

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make available to hon. Members a copy of the reasoned opinion issued by the European Commission in connection with the complaint under EC directive 85/337 in relation to the east London river crossing and the threat to Oxleas wood in Woolwich.

Mr. Norris

Correspondence between the Commission and member states is regarded as confidential by both parties, and the United Kingdom will continue to respect this convention.

Mr. Austin-Walker

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he received the reasoned opinion from the European Commission in connection with the complaint under the European directive 85/337 in relation to the east London river crossing and the threat to Oxleas wood in Woolwich; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Norris

The European Commission's reasoned opinion was received on 27 April. We are considering it carefully but remain confident that we will convince the Commission of the merits of our case.