HC Deb 06 June 1956 vol 553 cc1063-4
16. Mr. Callaghan

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he is aware of the low level of trade at present passing through Cardiff docks as compared with other ports; and what action he is taking to encourage a greater use of its facilities.

Mr. Watkinson

I am aware that Cardiff, like many other ports, has suffered from a loss of coal exports. As regards other traffic, it is for importers and exporters, in co-operation with shipowners, to choose the ports they use. I cannot influence them in favour of a particular port, but the British Transport Commission, and local interests are, I know, doing all they can to encourage the use of Cardiff docks.

Mr. Callaghan

Is the Minister aware that Cardiff dock workers are quite unable to understand why they should be unemployed at a time when other ports are congested? Can the right hon. Gentleman give any reason why that should be so, and what can be done to put it right?

Mr. Watkinson

I have given the reason. Unfortunately, the prime reason is the loss of coal exports, for which the port was primarily designed. It is only fair to say that the British Transport Commission and the other local interests, as I think the hon. Gentleman knows, have been trying to find some replacement for that loss of traffic. As it is the loss of traffic of a basic export, it is a very difficult job to do.

Mr. J. Griffiths

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether or not he accepts for the Government some responsibility to help a port which for generations has contributed so richly to the wealth of the country, and which, through changes in economic circumstances, now finds itself in this position? Would not he accept the responsibility of approaching ship owners and asking them to use the facilities of this splendid port?

Mr. Watkinson

A great deal has been done. Do I take it that the right hon. Gentleman is really saying that Cardiff will never regain any coal exports because there will never be any coal to export?

Mr. Griffiths

It may be that as part of our national policy we find it better to use the coal at home and derive more advantage from it, but that ought not to prevent the Minister from doing something to help Cardiff.