§ Mrs. Curtis-ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what estimate he has made of the financial impact of state funding and subsidies for European ports on the competitive position of UK ports and port operators. [49836]
§ Mr. JamiesonWe have not made specific estimates, but the European Commission included a report on public financing and charging in European ports in its Communication on Ports, published in February 2001. In discussions on its proposed Directive on Market Access to Port Services, we have urged the Commission to take a further look at these issues.
§ Chris GraylingTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions if he will make a statement on the proposals for European port services. [49819]
§ Mr. JamiesonThe UK supports the broad principles of liberalisation and competition in port services underpinning the proposed Directive on Market Access to Port Services but we are very keen that it should be realistic and proportionate. It must recognise the diversity of the industry and the competition that already exists. A Transport Council working group is considering the Commission's proposed Directive. We are engaging fully in these negotiations in a constructive manner.
§ Chris GraylingTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions, pursuant to his answer of 26 March,Official Report, column 946W, on European Union ports, what response he has had from the Commission to these representations. [49835]
§ Mr. JamiesonWe are awaiting a response from the Commission.