Port Of Dover - Outcome

[boxtops]

I know that some of you responded to our thread some months back, objecting to the privatisation of the Port of Dover, and the fact that this could well lead to it being sold off to foreign interests.

The Minister has spoken, and he has declined the Dover Harbour Board's proposal. Hurrah for the public vote, and thank you for your support!

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/39348/dover-harbour-board-transfer-20121220.pdf

[baza]

great another triumph for us plebs.

[Tilly2]

Good news, boxy. A nice Christmas present?

[boxtops]

we don't know what happens next now - watch this space!

[Hopkirk]

If it had been sold to Johnny Foreigner, where would they have taken it?

[boxtops]

who knows, hopkirk - shanghai was interested!

[Buenchico]

I still can't see why the Port of Dover shouldn't come under foreign ownership.

The largest and most successful port in the UK (Felixstowe) is just down the road from me. It's owned by Hong Kong based Hutchison Whampoa, which has invested vast amounts of money to ensure that it retains its current trading position.

[boxtops]

One of the issues, Chris, was the vast amount of money the current management stood to make (personally) from any sale. At the moment, none of the wealth of the docks comes back into the town, which is still an area of deprivation in some of the wards. The drive is for town ownership, under appropriate management.

[albaqwerty]

Boxy, I'm glad you posted this and the good result. Had an email from a Mr Mussa but couldn't open the attachment.