Ports New Trading Arrangements 2021-03-11
2021-03-11
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question addresses the adequacy of support provided by the government to British ports following the end of the transition period after Brexit. No specific event or statistic is mentioned in the initial question, but it prompts a discussion on the financial and infrastructural assistance given to ports.
What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the adequacy of support for ports adapting to new trading arrangements since the end of the transition period.
The Government continue to deliver wide-ranging support measures to British ports, including unprecedented levels of direct funding such as grants.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific discussions with Cabinet colleagues and the adequacy of current support were not addressed. Only a general statement on government actions was provided without concrete details or commitments.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The question follows concerns about the lack of funding needed to ensure Portsmouth's port can handle post-Brexit customs checks. Specific concern is raised regarding the July deadline and avoiding chaos similar to Dover.
Ministers continue to withhold the vital funds needed for Portsmouth international port to complete the post-Brexit infrastructure mandated by the Government's own border-operating model. With full customs checks coming in July, what steps is the Minister taking to secure the vital funding needed to ensure that our local authority-owned port remains competitive and prosperous, and that the chaos we saw at Dover in December does not become a reality in my city?
As a general rule, the “user pays” principle applies, so the Government would expect ports to pay for improvements themselves, but the Government have taken an unprecedented approach through the ports infrastructure fund to support as many ports as possible with grants. Portsmouth was awarded more than £17 million, which is the third-largest amount awarded to any port and is extremely significant funding. The hon. Gentleman's city is, of course, part of the successful Solent freeport bid, which I am sure he welcomes.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific steps being taken to secure vital funding were not addressed in detail. Instead, a general statement on funding principles and an example of significant award was given.
Response accuracy