§ Mr. Tony BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assurances were offered by Her Majesty's Government in respect of the funding of the channel tunnel. [10115]
§ Mr. WattsI am not aware that any assurances have been offered by the UK Government. From the start it was always envisaged that the channel tunnel would be an entirely private sector project, and that the concessionaires would have no recourse to Government funds or guarantees of a financial or commercial nature. That remains the position.
§ Mr. BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received from Eurotunnel in respect of the refinancing of the channel tunnel; and if he will make a statement. [10113]
§ Mr. WattsMy right hon. Friend has received representations from Eurotunnel on a number of issues, including the company's current financial difficulties. It has been made clear to the company that any financial restructuring of Eurotunnel is a matter for the company to resolve in discussion with its bankers, and without Government intervention.