by business editor Trevor Sturgess

tsturgess@thekmgroup.co.uk

Eurotunnel is offering cash incentives to any train operator willing to set up a cross-Channel "metro" between Ashford, Calais and Lille.

Jacques Gounon, chief executive of the Channel Tunnel, said he was disappointed that no such service had been introduced, adding it would be good for Kent and good for Northern France, helping people take up jobs on either side.

"We cannot understand why such a connection does not yet exist," he said at the Transmanche Jobs Fair in Frethun, Calais.

"I am willing to make some discounts if tolls are an issue because I believe we must take the lead. I am very disappointed because I have done my best and am ready to do more."

He said the service was wanted by people in Nord Pas de Calais, Kent and the rest of Europe, and he pledged at least a 10 per cent discount on the Channel Tunnel's normal access charges for up to two years.

He thought the best solutions would either be extending the existing Javelin service through the tunnel, or using available Eurostar trains. Both would be able to run through the tunnel without technical modification.

"I don't understand why politicians and other officials are not keen to extend this form of travel."

Although unlikely to make a profit from the start, public subsidy would be needed to kick-start the project.

Southeastern has been considering the project but has so far not made any decision. A consultants' study is due to be published in France next month.