HL Deb 11 December 1984 vol 458 cc126-7

3 p.m.

The Earl of Caithness

My Lords, I beg to move that the Bill be now considered on Report.

Moved, That the Bill be now considered on Report.—(The Earl of Caithness.)

Lord Alport

My Lords, I am sorry to rise rather slowly on this, but, not having followed the previous proceedings, I was not quite clear whether I was entitled at this particular point to say how very much I should like to welcome this order and how grateful I am to the Government for proceeding with it, and also for the fact that it should be done through the European Council's contribution. I must declare that I have a special interest in this matter in so far as I have been very familiar with all these ports over a long period of time. I know how very much this move on the part of the Government will help those who live on the islands and all those who visit it during the summer holiday period. This is particularly important from the point of view of the islands; and these are matters which will ensure that in the future more people in this part of the world and in the rest of England and Scotland will understand and have the advantage of that very beautiful part of Britain.

My Lords, if I am out of order in any way in introducing these particular sentiments at this point it is merely in order to make the point, which I know will be appreciated in the islands, that your Lordships have passed this Bill, which is so much to their advantage.

The Earl of Caithness

My Lords, I am grateful to my noble friend.

On Question, Bill considered on Report.