§ Mr. David NicholsonTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received since 1 October 1987 regarding queues of lorries at Dover eastern docks; whether such representations referred to manpower shortages in Her Majesty's Customs and Excise; what proposals he has to remedy the queuing; and if he would make a statement.
§ Mr. LilleyNo such representations have been received since 1 October 1987. Queues can build up from time to time due to peaking of traffic. The peaking can become acute in the late evening and early hours of the morning as many vehicles load during the day and use the night hours for the Channel crossing.
Significant changes in import and export documentation were introduced throughout the European Community on 1 January 1988. Problems experienced at Dover in early January due to errors or incorrect documentation are steadily being overcome.