Eurotunnel chiefs say they are interested in exploring the idea of building a second fixed link across the Channel, it has been reported.

The idea was mooted by the Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson during a state visit by the French president Emmanuel Macron to the UK last month.

Mr Johnson floated the plan, saying a second link would help trade between the two countries.

The proposal drew a mixed reaction, with some experts saying a bridge would be technically difficult.

But the Sunday Telegraph reported that the chief executive of Eurotunnel Jacques Gounon had written a note to government officials suggesting that talks should take place.

The note said: “The idea of a second fixed link is something that we regularly consider in our long-term plans and we would be delighted to engage with your officials to explore the possibility further.”

“We are very interested in this possibility, albeit perhaps a little early as today we only use around 54 per cent of total Tunnel capacity,” The Sunday Telegraph said.

In a tweet during the president’s visit, Mr Johnson said: “I’m especially pleased we are establishing a panel of experts to look at major projects together.

"Our economic success depends on good infrastructure and good connections. Should the Channel Tunnel be just a first step?”