Norman Baker, (LibDem, Lewes) spoke robustly to promote the port of Newhaven. He was looking for government backing for the economic cross-channel partnership with Dieppe.

Only two other members were in the chamber to hear his speech. But as one of them was Glenda Jackson he got direct access to the transport minister and was able to prompt what she called "a most interesting and detailed debate".

Mr Baker raised the profile of Newhaven port

Mr Baker drew attention to the great potential of Newhaven - and the potential disaster if the port was allowed to become "a pile of rust".

He called for the minister to assure the people of Newhaven that the government was committed to the port and its cross-channel links with Dieppe.

Ms Jackson assured him of the government's commitment to the port, and indeed to the rail and road services that supplied it, but stopped short of going into details.

The matter, she said, was being considered by her department and so she would say no more. But she did say that the integrated transport paper would be of great interest to the member for Lewes and the people of Newhaven.