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Dept of the Environment Transport and the Regions

Answer

Mr. Syms: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1) what representations he has received from United Kingdom ports on the proposed EU Directive on ports services; [142840] (2) if it is Her Majesty's Government's policy to oppose the proposed EU Directive on port services; [142839] (3) what assessment he has made of the cost of the proposed EU Directive on port services; [142838] (4) when United Kingdom ministers will discuss the proposed EU directive on port services, with their counterparts in other EU member states. [142841] Mr. Hill: [holding answer 15 December 2000]: The European Commission has not yet published its proposals for a Directive on access to port services, but officials have been keeping in touch with the Commission's thinking, and we understand that proposals may be launched early in the new year. Once these are public, we shall consult widely on them, aiming to take account of the full range of views on the possible impact, including port and terminal operators, port service providers, port users and customers, trade unions and other interests. There will also be opportunities for discussions with other member states. There are likely to be a number of important issues that will need to be addressed. Representations have been received from the UK Major Ports Group and we are also aware of the views of the British Ports Association and a number of port and terminal operators. Our general policy is to support the broad principles of liberalisation and competition in the provision of port services, subject to appropriate safeguards and standards.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

360 c8W; 142840;142839;142838;142841

Session

2000-01

Subjects

Costs Competition EU action Ports

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk