News

Stowaways aboard cross channel trains could have cost Eurotunnel, £24m in profits according to analysts.

The Channel Tunnel rail link operator said that operating revenue dropped to £548 million from £579m the year before, as stowaways cost the firm an estimated £20m - but the unwanted freight had become less of a problem in recent months following the introduction of tightened security, said chief executive Richard Shirrefs.

Eurotunnel is currently fighting the Government over financial help to stop illegal immigrants using the Channel Tunnel to enter the country.

The Government is threatening to charge Eurotunnel £2000 for each illegal who manages to get through its security and enter Britain, after discovering that about 1000 stowaways use the route each month.

Analysts expected the problems could affect profits to the tune of £24m.