§ Mr. Gregoryasked the Secretary of State for Transport what progress was made in respect of shipping matters at the European Community Transport Council on 24 June.
§ Mr. RidleyThe Council debated a communication and proposals from the Commission on a maritime transport policy. I stressed the importance which this Government attach to the rapid liberalisation of shipping services to, from, between and within member states. I reiterated our view that the Community cannot successfully tackle external shipping problems unless it has put its own house in order. The Council accepted this argument and agreed that priority should be given to the adoption of four draft regulations, with a view to arriving at first conclusions by the end of this year. These regulations would liberalise the internal shipping market and arm the Community with powers to deal with protectionism and unfair competition originating in third countries. This Council marks the first step towards a common shipping policy and should be welcomed, as such, by all United Kingdom shipping interests.