HC Deb 14 July 1982 vol 27 cc1029-30
19. Mr. Campbell-Savours

asked the Secretary of State for Transport how many ports he owns, or owns shares in, in the Northern region.

Mr. Eyre

None, Sir. Two ports in Cumbria, Barrow and Silloth, are owned by the British Transport Docks Board, a nationalised industry for which my right hon. Friend is responsible.

Mr. Campbell-Savours

Is the Minister aware that Maryport harbour in my constituency, which is publicly owned and has lain fallow for 30 years, could be a good object of capital investment as it is in a community that is desperate for work? Will he consider such investment?

Mr. Eyre

The hon. Gentleman will be aware that the ownership of that trust port is vested in the harbour commissioners as the statutory harbour authority and owners. I understand that the Maryport Steamship Company intends to provide a permanent exhibition of historic vessels in that harbour and that a grant is being obtained from the tourist board. I hope that that proposal will be helpful.

Mr. Colvin

rose

Mr. Speaker

Order. I remind the hon. Gentleman that the question relates to ports in the Northern region and that a supplementary question must be on that subject.

Mr. Colvin

Will my hon. Friend bring the House up to date with plans for the disposal of the British Transport Docks Board? If he has no plans, are discussions in train to formulate some?

Mr. Eyre

The British Transport Docks Board is continuing with its responsibilities to prepare for privatisation.

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