A BAN on gas-powered vehicles passing through the Channel Tunnel will remain in place until at least the new millennium, according to its operators. Despite calls for a change of heart from fuel manufacturer Shell and PHH Vehicle Management, the tunnel's operators have held back on making a proposal to lift the ban to the Channel Tunnel Safety Authority.

The ban has been in place since the tunnel was opened in 1994, amid fears that a fire could lead to gas tanks exploding in the tunnel. However, both Vauxhall and Shell insist that tests on emergency release valves in gas tanks show that they are capable of withstanding immense heat before releasing their contents in a slow and safe manner.

In anticipation of a change in regulations, Shell has opened a gas station at Dover, but is now having to wait until the ban is lifted before the expected level of custom will appear.