§ Order for Second Reading read.
7.36 pm§ Miss Janet Fookes (Plymouth, Drake)I beg to move, That the Bill be now read a Second Time.
Plymouth is justly famous for its long association with ships and the sea, with daring voyages of exploration and in naval terms as well, and it currently houses a major naval base, but it has also become famous over the years for recreation sailing and international competitions.
The present Bill seeks to have a marine events centre. It is soundly based and is a co-operative venture between Plymouth city council and a private firm, Dean and Dyball. We are urgently in need of this centre to provide all the facilities that are required for international yachting races and for lesser but none the less important activities. I believe that, once established, it will revitalise the area of Coxside in which it is situated and give great opportunities for employment, as well as being an additional recreational facility for the city of Plymouth.
I believe that the Bill is soundly based, and I warmly commend it to the House.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Environment (Mr. Neil Macfarlane)My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport's Department has raised a few minor points which are under discussion with the promoters, but I hope that the House will give the Bill a Second Reading and send it to Committee.
§ Question put and agreed to.
§ Bill accordingly read a Second Time and referred to the Examiners of Petitions for Private Bills.