Michael McCarthy (Labour)

We debated at length last week the merits and demerits of this proposal. I will not reiterate them now other than to urge the Minister to consider our perspective. We are arguing for the retention of local authority membership on the boards of port companies. They have been elected to their positions, they provide a vital connection to local democracy and they bring a certain expertise. I am mindful of the time we have already spent debating this issue. I intend to seek a vote on this amendment.