HC Deb 10 March 1969 vol 779 c955
4. Mr. Galbraith

asked the Minister of Transport what estimate he has made of the number of officials his plans to nationalise the ports will require; and what their cost will be.

Mr. Marsh

I see no present reason to believe that, as a result of the reorganisation, more officials will be required in the industry.

Mr. Galbraith

Does the Minister think it necessary, even if there are not to be more officials, to have this additional official superstructure? Will this not cause delays and increasing expense to the ports, very many of which are already publicly owned?

Mr. Marsh

I am afraid that the hon. Gentleman's second premise is as far out as is his first. This step will have the effect of making the ports more efficient.

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