The Chair requested that speeches be limited to around five minutes to accommodate all participants.

Ports handle 95% of Britain's physical trade, and the port of Southampton is a leading cruise turnaround port with £71 billion in annual value. However, the grid infrastructure outside the port gates limits its ability to fully utilise shore power technology, risking carbon emission reductions and competitiveness against European ports.

Noted concerns raised by Associated British Ports in Port Talbot regarding the current rail link's capacity and suggested that the Minister should assess whether upgrades or a new rail link are needed to support future industrial developments.

Jim Shannon highlighted the challenges faced by Northern Ireland's ports due to the Windsor framework, causing increased costs and administrative burdens for businesses trading between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. He cited a study indicating that 34% of firms have ceased trading with Northern Ireland because of these difficulties, while others reported having to travel as hauliers themselves to meet regulatory demands.

The Member for Cleethorpes highlighted the significance of ports like Immingham and the Humber ports to local economies, noting that around 85% by weight of international freight traded with the UK moves by sea. He mentioned a recent decrease in total freight tonnage through major ports and emphasised the need for investment in energy and rail infrastructure to support growth.

Asked the hon. Friend to outline how the vision for ports in Cornwall can link into broader industrial strategy zones and expressed hope that support from the Department for Transport will accelerate rail connection projects at Falmouth.

Emphasised the importance of ports for economic growth and highlighted issues with road versus rail freight connectivity. Called for railway electrification investment, specifically mentioning DP World's offer to electrify three miles at London Gateway for £20 million, proposing a £10 million Government match. Criticised Brexit bureaucracy and advocated closer ties with Europe.

The Member for Bootle discussed Liverpool's port, its importance to local employment and economic growth, and highlighted the necessity of improving rail links. He also called on the Government to ensure National Highways provides funding to build a new bridge over the A5036 road to mitigate the impact of heavy traffic on communities.

East Thanet's port in Ramsgate is idle and neglected despite its historical significance. Port traffic has decreased by nearly 13% since Brexit, but the EU remains a significant partner for UK trade. The Government have taken some steps to support ports, such as a revised national policy statement and using the National Wealth Fund for industrial investment, yet there are limits to these measures. Ramsgate needs £20 million to reopen but the National Wealth Fund won't consider projects under £50 million.

He highlighted the economic importance of ports such as Tilbury and London Gateway, which support local employment. He noted a decrease in ships visiting major UK ports according to an Office for National Statistics bulletin, with freight tonnage down 3% at the start of the year compared to the previous year. Richard Holden also mentioned the Port of Aberdeen's 25% decline in oil and gas activity, stressing that ports are indicators of economic health. He emphasised the need for improved road infrastructure around major ports, mentioning projects like the lower Thames crossing and A666 upgrades.