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PARLIAMENT PUSHES THROUGH EU TRANSPORT PROJECTS
Wednesday 21st April 2004
The trans-European Network programme was formally adopted by the European Parliament in Strasbourg today. The programme, consisting of 30 projects, includes new road and rail links throughout the length and breadth of the UK and will be a major help in combating the growing congestion across Europe's major road, rail and sea networks.
Timothy Kirkhope, Conservative MEP for Yorkshire and the Humber, said:
"The Parliament's decision to adopt this extremely important EU programme is a welcome boost for our transport networks. The growth on these major transport networks over the next decade is projected to be huge; it is therefore crucial that Europe acts now. By giving this programme its seal of approval Parliament has done its bit; it is now up to the respective Member States to make sure the projects in their own back-yard are completed.
This applies to the Yorkshire and Humber region especially. The European Parliament has committed Europe to supplying funds for the Hull Liverpool corridor but this money has to be matched by money from the British Government.
The confirmation of the other new schemes across the UK is also welcome news. I am now calling on the British Government to put its money where its mouth is in order to ensure all of these schemes are completed by their relevant cut off dates. I have to say their track record on these vital transport links has so far been extremely disappointing and as the draftsman for this legislation in the European Parliament, I shall be monitoring the Government's intentions very closely."
