HC Deb 13 July 1987 vol 119 c350W
Mr. Parry

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans Her Majesty's Government have to extend free ports.

Mr. Brooke

None at present. The Government will review the future of free ports at the end of the five-year trial period.

Mr. Parry

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

Mr. Brooke

Yes. The free ports regime was established for a five-year trial period to see whether the benefits forecast by the designated operators can be realised. To date, some free ports have made substantial progress; others have been less successful. We will continue to monitor the experiment over the remainder of its five-year life.

Mr. Parry

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many new jobs have been created at the Liverpool free port at the latest date.

Mr. Brooke

Approximately 100 new jobs in manufacturing and distribution have been created at Liverpool free port.