HC Deb 01 December 1976 vol 921 c905
23. Mr. Viggers

asked the Secretary of State for Transport whether he has any plans to change the ownership of any ports.

Mr. William Rodgers

Not in this Session.

Mr. Viggers

Is the Secretary of State aware that very few opportunities occur for the Opposition to congratulate the Government, but that his Department in this sector and the Drought Minister in his have been equally successful? Will he assure the House that he will keep up his present record, because the competition and efficiency of the ports are helped by their varied ownership?

Mr. Rodgers

If I understand the hon. Gentleman aright, the answer is that I can make no promises.

Mr. Ronald Atkins

Does my right hon. Friend realise that the only way to keep Preston Docks open is to change their ownership by taking them into public ownership, away from a municipal authority which does not want to keep them open?

Mr. Rodgers

I know of my hon. Friend's very proper concern, which he has expressed to me. Equally, he knows that I have no powers to exercise in this matter.