§ Miss LestorTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he is taking to ensure the security of the channel tunnel and its users; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanThe Secretary of State for Transport has, under the terms of the Channel Tunnel (Security) Order 1994, directed the concessionaires—Eurotunnel—and other channel tunnel users to take appropriate security measures to protect the tunnel system, the trains and associated facilities, people and property against acts of violence.
550WThe Secretary of State has also authorised officials from the Department of Transport's transport security division to inspect the security arrangements in place to ensure that the required security standards are, and continue to be, met.
§ Mr. DunnTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what authorisations for commercial operations have been given to Eurotunnel.
§ Mr. FreemanThe United Kingdom/French Channel Tunnel Intergovernmental Commission has, on the advice of the United Kingdom/French Channel Tunnel Safety Authority and the maitre d'oeuvre for the project, authorised Eurotunnel to bring the channel tunnel into operation for through freight trains and heavy goods vehicle shuttles. I am placing copies of Eurotunnel's application and the authorisation in the Library.