HC Deb 27 July 1979 vol 971 c641W
Mr. Bowen Wells

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will make a statement about the corporate plan of the Port of London Authority.

Mr. Fowler

The Port of London Authority's corporate plan was submitted to me on 29 June. It consists of a short-term plan 1979–80 for the period up to 30 June, and a strategic plan for the five years up to 1983.

The short-term plan represents an important agreement with the unions on further reductions in manpower, improved working practices, and a review of other obstacles to efficiency and economy. I welcome this evidence of constructive co-operation. I have told the PLA that the Government approve it and that I attach the utmost importance to its urgent implementation in accordance with the programme agreed with the trade unions.

I shall announce my decisions on the PLA's five-year strategic plan as soon as possible, in the light among other things of advice from Price Waterhouse and Co. Meanwhile, the Government will continue to make available financial support, including continuing loans from the national loans fund for capital works, on the same conditions as were announced by the previous Government on 31 July last year.