HC Deb 11 July 1973 vol 859 cc1512-3
14. Mr. Douglas

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has completed his discussions with the National Ports Council regarding the development of port facilities in South and East England.

Mr. Peyton

I regularly discuss such matters with the council.

Mr. Douglas

Will the right hon. Gentleman be a little more forthcoming about what is happening over the Maplin seaport development? Does not the Port of London Authority appear to be behaving as though the matter of the seaport and oil terminal is a fait accompli, which will go ahead regardless of the airport development? Will he give the Government's view on the question whether or not this is a possible development?

Mr. Peyton

I am only too anxious to help the hon. Gentleman. I was not quite sure to what port facilities he was referring. I am aware now: I am grateful to him There is no question of any fait accompli. The proposals of the Port of London Authority certainly have to come to the Government, and would need approval under Section 9 of the Harbours Act.

Mr. Adley

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind the particular needs and potential of the West Country ports—not only Bristol, but Falmouth? Does he agree that if the Channel Tunnel goes ahead it is likely to prove an extremely attractive proposition for people using ports like Bristol and Falmouth, in that Bristol would become the nearest port to North America with overland transportation and direct access to Europe? Would he bear these points in mind and ask the National Ports Council to bear in mind the importance to the West Country ports of the Channel Tunnel decision?

Mr. Peyton

Yes, Sir, of course I shall bear these in mind, but not even the most ardent supporter of Bristol would regard it as being particularly close to the South-East.

Mr. Mulley

Does the Minister recall the strong recommendations that he made in saying that he would be reforming the National Ports Council, and talking of the importance of its role? Has not the whole Maplin project been embarked upon by the Government without the advice of the National Ports Council on the ports aspect of it? Are the Government afraid that the council may show the same enthusiasm about the project as the Civil Aviation Authority appears to be showing?

Mr. Peyton

No, Sir, absolutely not. Before the Government make any decision on the seaport, certainly the advice of the National Ports Council will be sought and very carefully considered.