HC Deb 02 November 1989 vol 159 cc271-2W
Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what means of redress or appeal exists in the case of maladministration or inefficiency by a body such as a port authority.

Mr. McLoughlin

Harbour authorities that are companies or statutory trusts are autonomous bodies running commercial undertakings. Any complaint should be made to the chief executive or chairman, and if satisfaction is not obtained the complaint can ultimately be pursued through the courts. For harbours run by local authorities there are also the usual channels for seeking a remedy from the actions of a local authority. In addition, there are two statutory rights of appeal to the Secretary of State: in respect of all harbour authorities, against their dues and, if they are competent harbour authorities under the Pilotage Act 1987, their pilotage charges; and in respect of a few authorities whose local legislation contains power to license works in the harbour area, against their licensing decisions.

Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether he has any plans to abolish the Clyde port authority and to replace it with another body.

Mr. McLoughlin

No. But I understand that the authority has been considering the possibility of seeking a change in its status.