Channel Tunnel no threat
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THE CHANNEL TUNNEL does not constitute a threat to cross-Channel ferries, according to British Rail chairman Sir Peter Parker.
He told the House of Commons Select Committee on Transport last week that there is room for growth of all forms of European freight transport, and that EEC infrastructure funds should be used to improve road access to ports as well as build the singletrack rail tunnel.
The "mousehole" tunnel will be used to link up the European rail system, and there is no question of raising British Rail's loading gauges to accommodate Berne Gauge rolling stock north of Folkestone.
The only major reconstruction will be for BR's Southern Region to be able to carry 8ft 6in containers between London and Europe.
Conservative MP Peter Fry told the Committee that the infrastructure fund should be used to remove some of the disadvanges which Britain suffers through being on the edge of the EEC. He said that this amounts to £3000m per year.