Scottish trust ports assets: EIR release

Information requested

The exact process from start to disposal of a Scottish trust ports assets. Particularly the requirements of Section 5 of the Ports Act 1991, the request for consent from the minister and what process the minister applies before consent is given.

Response

Part 1 of the Ports Act 1991 makes provision regarding the formation of companies by certain statutory harbour authorities (which could include trust ports) and the transfer of the property, rights, liabilities and functions of those authorities to those companies. It sets out details of the process those statutory port undertakings would need to follow to change the ownership of its assets.

As noted previously, the Scottish Government has not received any recent requests from trust ports to change their ownership status under the Ports Act 1991.

Any ministerial consent provided under section 5 of the 1991 Act would be based on the details and merits of each specific case, and be determined with due consideration of all representations made. When making a decision, Scottish Ministers will always follow the guidance on decision making, as set out in Right First Time.

We do not hold any other information which is relevant to your request.

About FOI

The Scottish Government is committed to publishing all information released in response to Freedom of Information requests. View all FOI responses at http://www.gov.scot/foi-responses.