CHANNEL TUNNEL

Dominion, Volume 22, Issue 93, 14 January 1929, Page 9

CHANNEL TUNNEL

INCREASING INTEREST IN SCHEME

OUTLET TO ENGLAND’S TRAFFIC COMPLETION IN FIVE YEARS SUGGESTED (United Press Association.— By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright.) (Australian Press Association.) (Rec. January 13, 5.5 p.m.) London, January 12. The Channel tunnel scheme has become such a live popular subject that it would not be surprising if something more definite were heard of it when the House of Commons reassembles. The idea of catching a bus in Piccadillj Circus and alighting in the Rue de la Paix has captured the popular imagination, likewise entraining at London direct for Berlin or anywhere else on the Continent. The scheme originally was dropped, although there \ is a mile or two of tunnel on each side, liecause of the absurd fears of the war lords. , , . In the course of a speech at fcewcastle to-day Viscount Cecil said he wholeheartedly supported the scheme. The advantages would be tremendous, and the disadvantages remote and fantastice. He could conceive nothing less likely than a sudden unforeseen attack from France. The dangers which would threaten England in the event of war would be an air attack and starvation, neither of which would be increased by the tunnel. He added that England must abolish war from her mind. Once convince the people that they were safe and they would be safe. Scores of influential people are urging that the scheme be taken up immediately. It is estimated that the tunnel would be completed in five years. A remarkable development of the idea was advanced to-day by Professor A. E. Richardson, the distinguished architect, who proposes two double tunnels, or four tunnels in all, the two on the outside for roadways and the inside ones for railways. They would give a great outlet to England’s traffic. In rain or snowstorm the thirty-two miles of tunnel would always be available. Furthermore, four tunnels could more easily be constructed than two. A Londoner could motor from home to the Continent at the week-end with the same ease as he at present tours England.