§ Chris GraylingTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what representations he has received about state support to British ports. [45302]
§ Mr. JamiesonWe have received representations about the proposed Great Yarmouth Outer Harbour Project and about the ferry service from the Port of Rosyth to Zeebrugge. We believe that port developments and port operations should not in general need public subsidy. However, if a project has the potential to justify worthwhile economic and environmental benefits, it may qualify to be considered for an element of public funding.
§ Chris GraylingTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions if he will make a statement on the differing levels of state assistance provided to European Union ports. [45301]
§ Mr. JamiesonThe European Commission included a report on public financing and charging in European ports in its Communication on Ports, published in February 2001. We believe that state funding and subsidies are an important factor affecting competition between European ports, and we have urged the Commission to take a further look at these issues.