Mr. StephenRoss asked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) if he proposes to nationalise the remaining docks and harbours not yet in public ownership;
(2) if he proposes to take into public ownership the Mersey Docks and Harbour Company; and if so on what basis compensation for the shareholders will be computed.
§ Mr. MulleyThe Government intend to bring into public ownership all commercial port undertakings not already run by public bodies. It will not be possible 153W to indicate the proposed bases of compensation until detailed proposals for legislation are announced. The views of representative bodies and organisations are still being considered on the preliminary proposals set out in the Department's letter of 20th August. I am sending a copy to the hon. Member.