Written question asked by Lord Boswell of Aynho (Conservative) on Tuesday, 11 December 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 18 December 2001. It was answered by David Jamieson (Labour) on Tuesday, 18 December 2001 on behalf of the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions.

Dept for Transport Local Government and the Regions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions, if he will make a statement on the impact of the security situation at Frethun on railfreight traffic through the Channel Tunnel; and what steps he is taking to (a) reduce interruption to traffic and (b) mitigate the financial impact on British rail terminal operations. - (Holding answer 17 December 2001).

Answer: Mr. Boswell: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions if he will make a statement on the impact of the security situation at Frethun on railfreight traffic through the channel tunnel; and what steps he is taking to (a) reduce interruption to traffic and (b) mitigate the financial impact on British rail terminal operations. [23115] Mr. Jamieson: [holding answer 17 December 2001]: Rail freight through the channel tunnel is currently being disrupted due to repeated intrusions by would-be illegal immigrants to this country. This is a matter of considerable concern to the Government. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has raised the issue with the French Prime Minister. My right hon. Friends the Secretary of State and the Minister for Transport have both made representations to the French Transport Minister emphasising the need for a speedy resolution so that normal levels of service can resume, free of intrusion from illegal immigrants. The UK Immigration Service held a meeting with the head of security for the French railways on 3 December to investigate the scope for speeding up the implementation of additional security measures at the Frethun freight yard, and to offer assistance and advice on those security measures. The question of compensation is one for the French railways, as it is their decision to reduce services that has resulted in the financial impact to British operators.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 377 c224-5W; 23115
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Channel tunnel High Speed 1 line Undocumented migrants Freight Railways Security
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk