HC Deb 18 July 1995 vol 263 cc1117-8W
Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what action is being taken either by him or the port authorities about the privatisation of ports in Northern Ireland. [35288]

Mr. Moss

The Ports (Northern Ireland) Order came into effect on 2 January 1995. This would enable the privatisation of the Northern Ireland trust ports. It also provides reserve powers for the Department to initiate the privatisation of a port with a turnover in excess of £5.4 million, but these powers are not exercisable until two years after the order came into effect. The port authorities in Northern Ireland are currently examining the implications of this legislation.

Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland for what financial support from the European Union the ports of Northern Ireland would become ineligible if they were privatised. [35290]

Mr. Moss

European Union structural funds grants which are currently available to public sector ports in Northern Ireland would continue to be available in the event of privatisation.