Written question asked by John Robertson (Labour) on Tuesday, 30 January 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 13 February 2001. It was answered by Keith Hill (Labour) on Tuesday, 13 February 2001 on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions.

Dept of the Environment Transport and the Regions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, If he will make a statement on modernising British ports. (Failed OPQ). - Inc ref to "Modern Ports".

Answer: John Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on modernising British ports. [148476] Mr. Hill: The Government announced the publication of a ports policy paper, "Modern Ports", on 27 November. Ports have an important role in integrated transport policy. The paper identifies a number of specific initiatives we hope to pursue. We intend to promote better regulation of the industry, and agreed national standards and good practice for port management and port operations alike. The paper sets out a balanced policy on port development which aims to make the best use of existing and former operational land, secures high environmental standards, but supports sustainable projects for which there is a clear need.

Secondary information