Lib Dems fight in Parliament to save Channel Tunnel freight services
October 12, 2006 11:06 AM
The Lib Dems have launched a bid in Parliament to save freight services through the Channel Tunnel. British freight will no longer be taken through the Channel Tunnel after 30th November, because the Government is to end financial support of the service.
The 1.6m tonnes which train operator EWS carries annually will have to be transported by other more environmentally damaging means after this date. With huge financial pressure on the Tunnel, with some leading commentators already predicting bankruptcy, the news will cause even greater concern at the Tunnel's Cheriton terminal.
Today, Liberal Democrat Shadow Transport Secretary, Alistair Carmichael MP will table an Early Day Motion calling on the Government to negotiate a new financial settlement to allow these journeys to continue.
Mr Carmichael said:
"It is shocking that at a time when the Government is claiming to support clean forms of transport, Ministers content to sit by and let our freight industry crumble.
"The Government has failed to support our freight industry since coming to power. I call on them to act now, while there is still time."
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