HC Deb 21 April 1977 vol 930 cc129-30W
Mr. Cowans

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what decision he has reached about the chairmanship of the National Ports Council; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. William Rodgers

Mr. John Page, currently Chairman of the Mersey Dock and Harbour Company, has accepted my invitation to succeed Mr. Philip Chappell as Chairman of the National Ports Council on 15th June.

Active collaboration between the council and the ports industry is essential and I am inviting the council to discuss with the port authorities how it can best continue to assist in furthering the interests of the ports and their contribution to the efficient handling of the nation's trade, and to report to me.