The M20 should be expanded by two lanes to cope with Operation Stack, according to the boss of the Port of Dover.

Bob Goldfield, the port's chief executive, also claims that a total six lorry parks are needed.

In a letter to the Kentish Express, Mr Goldfield said: “More lanes on our existing motorways would be a good start, especially within Kent.

“The land take to provide two additional lanes on the M20 between Junctions 10 and 12, coastbound, would be minimal.

“It would provide the means by which Operation Stack could be activated quickly and easily without bringing the who system to a halt.”

He said that lorry parks were needed, probably three between the M20 and M26 and another three on the M2/A2.

Mr Goldfield was responding to Kent Green MEP Caroline Lucas who said that lorry parks, such as the one planned for Aldington, were unworkable.

Protesters have also called for more freight to be carried on trains.

Mr Goldfield said that while rail freight could contribute it was not enough.

This was because while one train took the equivalent of 100 to 150 lorryloads, the port alone handled upwards of 9,000 loads a day.