Mr Mark Francois

Mr Mark Francois

Conservative — Rayleigh and Wickford

Speaking in the House of Commons on 15 October 2026

Debate

Highways (Financing) Bill

Contribution

For the record, the first Dartford tunnel opened in 1963, under a Conservative Government, and the Queen Elizabeth II bridge at Thurrock opened in 1991, under a Conservative Government. Is not the risk that if the lower Thames crossing is 90% funded by private finance, which I am not opposed to in principle, the toll charges could be so ruinous that it will be very difficult for ordinary motorists to afford it? We would have some confidence if we knew who was going to fund the scheme, but until we know that, we are going to be worried, aren’t we?

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