Partner Article

European Commissioner supports MEP on Liverpool turnaround calls

North East MEP Martin Callanan’s campaign to prevent Liverpool Cruise terminal from receiving turnaround calls has received the backing of the EU Commissioner Joaquin Almunia.

Mr Callanan has made repeated protests against the proposals, which he believes could adversely affect the North East shipping industry.

In 2007 Liverpool City Council received £21 million in public funding to build a cruise ferry terminal for day visits, but have since made several applications for permission to change the status of the port.

In 2011, the Department of Transport launched a proposal to remove the conditions of fair competition legislation, on the condition that the council repay the exchequer £5.3 million over the next 15 years. They would not be required to repay the £9 million European Regional Development Funding which they have also received.

Mr Callanan recently contacted the Commissioner to highlight his concerns over the proposals.

In response, the Commissioner commented: “Following the reception of some complaints, we approached the UK authorities who committed to consult us before proceeding to any possible relaxation of the conditions of the use of the terminal.

“Of course, the UK authorities need to complete first public consultation hold on the future of the terminal, and decide what consequences to draw from it.

“In this context, we will ensure that the State aid rules as well as the rules applicable to the financing from the European Regional Development Fund are fully respected.”

Mr Callanan welcomed the Commissioners response, which demonstrates his genuine concern over the issue.

He added: “Liverpool received UK taxpayers’ money in the form of a Government grant and ERDF on the condition that they would not operate turnaround calls.

“I have simply said since the beginning, that if Liverpool wants to tear up that agreement, it follows that they must hand back every penny.

“I have consistently argued that state aid rules mean Liverpool cannot use taxpayers’ money to expand its cruise business at the expense of others, and I am pleased that Commissioner Almunia has confirmed that these rules will be fully respected.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .