9. Mr. J. Enoch Powllasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what measures he contemplates taking in view of the withdrawal of Coastal Containers Ltd. from Warrenpoint.
§ Mr. Giles ShawThe withdrawal of Coastal Containers' cross-channel service from Warrenpoint is a matter, primarily, for the Warrenpoint harbour authority. But I have discussed this matter with the authority and I understand that the authority is continuing its efforts to attract other companies to the port to make use of the facilities which are no longer being used by Coastal Containers Ltd.
Mr. PowellDoes not this regrettable setback to the expansion of this port provide an opportunity for a review of its future on a wide scale, taking account of the potential attractions of the port for cross-Channel services of a passenger and car character?
§ Mr. ShawI admit that a withdrawal on this scale—roughly 20 per cent. of the volume of traffic—is a matter of concern to me and to the users and management of the port and I agree with the right hon. Gentleman that this will allow a wider review of the future of the port. But the immediate task is to seek to replace those customers who have been lost with new ones.
§ Mr. James A. DunnWhy did Coastal Containers leave Warrenpoint? Was the reason financial? If it was, what aid can the Government give to attract the firm back?
§ Mr. ShawCoastal Containers Ltd. left Warrenpoint due to a decline in economic 791 traffic on the one hand and the prospect of the closure of the port of Preston on the other. It is not the policy of the Government to intervene in commercial decisions of that character.