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Howard's Way.... a weekly column from the Rt. Hon. Michael Howard QC. MP. 

10 July 2008

Last Thursday I went to what turned out to be a most unusual meeting.

You may remember that, at a meeting I held some weeks ago with Transport Minister, Tom Harris; doubts were expressed about the intentions of Southeastern Rail with regard to the parking facilities to be provided at Folkestone West Station when the high speed train service comes into operation next year.

A major interchange at Folkestone West had always been an integral part of the proposal with provision for up to 500 parking spaces. But at the meeting with the Minister it was suggested that Southeastern Trains intended to defer this facility until after the high speed service had been in operation for some time.

So I attended the meeting on Thursday with Southeastern’s Chief Executive and Commercial Manager expecting a fight. I was accompanied by Councillor George Bunting and Stephen Gasche of Shepway District Council. To our great surprise the Southeastern representatives admitted that a mistake had been made, communication had been at fault and the original proposal would be implemented as planned.

That was good news.

But there was less encouraging news on the question of whether the trains would stop at Sandling during peak hours. No decision has been made on this and a consultation exercise will take place before it is. But this question is connection to the time which the new service will take from Folkestone to London. We all want this to be less than an hour and this may not be possible if it stops at Sandling. It will be essential for all who feel strongly about this to make their views known when the consultation exercise takes place.

On Friday I presented the prizes at the Interschools Citizenship Quiz Final at The Marsh Academy. The knowledge displayed by the primary schools who took part was truly impressive. Congratulations to Lydd Primary School who won for the second year in succession.

Saturday saw the start of the 8th Hythe Festival with a splendid turnout for the parade in the High Street.

And on Sunday I attended the Annual Battle of Britain Memorial Day at Capel le Ferne – an occasion that is always moving. This year, despite the weather, was no exception. It was particularly nice to see so many younger people present. We must never forget the debt we owe the Few.