HC Deb 15 July 1974 vol 877 cc13-4
12. Mr. Terry Walker

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what evidence his Department has that goods for export are being delayed at Great Britain's ports; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Deakins

I am aware of complaints from exporters of their goods being held up in ports. In the main these are due to inadequacy of shipping space on certain long sea routes and also to local shortages of containers. The British Overseas Trade Board is in touch with the conferences concerned, which are taking all steps immediately open to them to alleviate the situation.

Mr. Walker

Is my hon. Friend aware that a firm of sports footwear manufacturers in my constituency was unable to send a consignment to Australia within a reasonable time and that the order was lost? While it is admitted that these goods have been sold on the home market, it is at a cost to our balance of payments.

Mr. Deakins

I take my hon. Friend's point. The major problem arises, at a time of increased international trade, from congestion experienced in some overseas ports, Australia being a notable example.

Mr. Body

Is the hon. Member aware that one port where there is never any delay is Boston and that it could be used more often?

Mr. Deakins

I am sure that the whole House will note that.

Mr. Eldon Griffiths

In view of the appalling delays in most of our public sector ports, will the hon. Gentleman say why he feels that nationalising the ports will help the situation in any way?

Mr. Deakins

The delays have nothing to do with nationalisation or private enterprise. The measures to alleviate the congestion in our ports are twofold. First, discussions are going on with the British Overseas Trade Board and the conferences concerned to try to predict more accurately future levels of demand for shipping. Secondly, there will be a meeting tomorrow of the Economic Development Council for the Movement of Exports, which will discuss the problem in great detail.