HL Deb 07 November 1995 vol 566 cc211-2WA
Lord Brougham and Vaux

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they have reached a decision on the privatisation of the ports of Dover, Ipswich and Tyne.

Viscount Goschen

Following consultation with the trust port authorities concerned, my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Transport has decided to use his powers under the Ports Act 1991 to require the Port Authorities of Ipswich and Tyne to submit schemes for privatisation. As regards Dover, we accept the Harbour Board's advice that it would be better for privatisation to be deferred for two years until the effect of the Channel Tunnel on the port's business is clearer. The board has assured my right honourable friend that it is their aim to submit a scheme for privatisation by September 1997.