HC Deb 24 February 1983 vol 37 c521W
17. Mr. Aitken

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he expects the working party on free ports to report; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Proctor

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is yet able to state when the working party on free ports expects to reach a conclusion; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Brittan

My right hon. and learned Friend expects to receive the report of the working party within a few days.

26. Mr. Grylls

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether ministerial approval was required for the letter on free ports published in the Daily Telegraph on 1 February, from Sir Douglas Lovelock, chairman of the Board of Customs and Excise.

Mr. Hayhoe

Yes.

Mr. Teddy Taylor

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what restrictions are placed by the European Community on the range of incentives, tax exemptions and other cash privileges which may be offered within free ports; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

[pursuant to his reply, 22 February 1983, c. 408]: Article 92 of the treaty of Rome stipulates that the granting of any aid which distorts or threatens to distort competition by favouring particular undertakings or the production of particular goods—save as otherwise provided in the treaty—is incompatible with Community rules. This provision applies equally to free ports as to other areas within the European Community.