§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if Challenger tanks can be transported through the channel tunnel. [5709]
§ Mr. SoamesThis is a matter for the chief executive of the Defence Transport and Movements Executive. I have asked the chief executive to write to the hon. Member.
Letter from Michael Hodson to Dr. David Clark, dated 26 November 1996:
I am replying to your Question to the Secretary of State for Defence, about the transportation of Challenger tanks through the Channel Tunnel, as this matter falls within my area of responsibility as Chief Executive of the Defence Transport and Movements Executive Agency.Challenger tanks could be transported through the Channel Tunnel, as the Tunnel rail loading gauge is large enough to accept all variants. As I pointed out in my reply to your earlier Question on the various methods of moving tanks, the transportation means on either side of the Tunnel would vary. The UK rail loading gauge cannot accommodate Challenger tanks and loading to and from continental rolling stock would need to take place at Cheriton, the tanks having been transported there by road. Dependent on the destination on the continent, on-move on the French side could be either by rail or road.There are no current intentions to utilize the Tunnel for moving tanks but planning continues, in order that this could be a future option.