§ Mr. Leaveyasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why Customs officials do not remain on duty at Fishguard after 9 p.m., having regard to the departure of ships at 0215 hours and the need to meet the convenience of the public.
§ Mr. BarberThe regular practice at Fishguard is for a Customs officer to remain on duty at the request of the transport authorities for as long as is necessary after 9 p.m. to deal with expected traffic, and for another officer to commence duty at midnight. In addition Waterguard staff are available to cover all the scheduled services. I have no reason to suppose that these arrangements do not adequately meet the convenience of the public, but if my hon. Friend has any evidence to the contrary, I will look into the matter further.