HC Deb 21 March 1995 vol 257 cc146-7W
Mr. Mackinlay

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what are the required inspection levels of channel tunnel vehicles referred to at paragraph 10.2.4 of his Transport report 1995. [14882]

Mr. Watts

All vehicles using the channel tunnel are liable to be searched. It would not be appropriate to detail the measures applied on security grounds.

Mr. Mackinlay

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when pulsed fast neutron analysis will be operational in respect of screening freight vehicles using the channel tunnel to the required inspection levels. [14886]

Mr. Watts

Pulsed fast neutron analysis technology is currently undergoing further developing work and it is not therefore possible to give a firm operational date at this stage. However, at the satisfactory conclusion of this work, Eurotunnel will be required to put PFNA in place at both UK and French terminals.

Mr. Mackinlay

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how Transec monitors and inspects the channel tunnel system; and if he will make a statement. [14887]

Mr. Watts

Under the terms of the Channel Tunnel (Security) Order 1994, the channel tunnel security inspectors give instructions, offer advice and make both announced and unannounced inspections to ensure that the required security standards are, and continue to be, met. It would not be appropriate to detail their operational methods or their findings on security grounds.