§ Mr. David ShawTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he has reached a decision on the privatisation of the ports of Dover, Ipswich and Tyne. [42100]
§ Sir George YoungFollowing consultation with the trust port authorities concerned, I have decided to use my powers under the Ports Act 1991 to require the port authorities of Ipswich and Tyne to submit schemes for privatisation. As regards Dover, I 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 me that it is its aim to submit a scheme for privatisation by September 1997.