HC Deb 02 July 1987 vol 118 cc168-70W
Mr. Parry

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is satisfied with the working of the Liverpool freeport; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Brooke

[pursuant to his reply, 1 July 1987, c. 95]: The free zone experiment was initiated for a fixed five-year period. Liverpool has reported a steady growth in business since it commenced operations, and I hope that this trend will continue.

Mr. Parry

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he has assessed what effects the Manx freeport will have on the Liverpool freeport; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Brooke

[pursuant to his reply, 1 July 1987, c. 95]: The Manx freeport is not yet operational and so has had no effect on trade through Liverpool. But we will continue to monitor the free zone experiment during its five-year life.