HC Deb 25 April 1975 vol 890 cc415-6W
Mr. James Johnson

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what directives he has issued to the BTDB on avoiding the charging of competitive harbour dues and the consequent undercutting of other ports.

Mr. Mulley

None.

Mr. James Johnson

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will list his powers to intervene with the BTDB concerning the fixing of harbour dues by port authorities.

Mr. Mulley

My right hon. Friend has no powers to intervene directly with the BTDB for such a purpose, but he has powers under Section 32 of the Harbours Act 1964 to confirm a scheme submitted to him by the National Ports Council for revising ship, passenger and goods dues at any commercial harbour.