HC Deb 12 January 1987 vol 108 c90W
Sir Fergus Montgomery

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on the progress to date of each of the free trade zones.

Mr. Brooke

The present position is as followsBelfast: Customs approval to start operations expected soon; operator reports numerous inquiries but no firm commitments from potential users. Birmingham: (West Midlands) Opened on 27 November 1986; one user at present, another has been authorised to trade, four other applications are under consideration. Cardiff: Yet to start operations. Liverpool: Opened on 20 December 1984; 37 traders at present authorised to use free zone; in 1986 calendar year 190,000 tons of goods (value £60 million) passed through free zone. Prestwick: Ceased operations on 31 October 1986 though Kyle and Carrick District Council at present considering ways in which the company may be revived. Southampton: Opened on 30 September 1985; at present two users; annual throughput about £15 million.