A Harwich-based ferry company has asked for help in ensuring jobs will not be taken away from the Haven area.
DFDS Tor Line's deputy chairman, Ebbe Pederson, has written to Harwich MP Ivan Henderson with concerns that shipping developments elsewhere could mean a drain on employment in north-east Essex ports.
Mr Pederson was mainly referring to the proposed £43.5 million development of an outer harbour at Great Yarmouth.
The scheme would be supported by public funding and last week Transport Secretary Alistair Darling described it as an "important project".
But Mr Pederson said in his letter to Mr Henderson: "The view of DFDS is that if private investors believe in such a project, then they should be free to go ahead, but public/EU grants should not be made available for political reasons which will migrate jobs from the Haven and Humber ports, which are not subsidised."
He asked Mr Henderson to support this and make representations.
The Haven area includes Harwich International Port, Harwich Navyard Wharf and Mistley Port.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article