(a) State five reasons for the presence of the customs and excise authority at seaports. (b) Explain five functions of airport authority

Answer Details

(a) Five reasons for the presence of the customs and excise authority at seaports

1. Collection of import and export duties: They assess and collect duties and tariffs on goods entering and leaving the country, raising revenue for government.
2. Prevention of smuggling: They check vessels and cargo to stop the illegal movement of goods in and out of the country.
3. Enforcement of trade laws: They ensure that prohibited and restricted goods, such as hard drugs and expired products, are not imported or exported.
4. Compilation of trade statistics: They record the quantity and value of goods traded, which helps government in planning the balance of trade and payments.
5. Inspection and documentation of goods: They examine cargo and verify shipping documents to confirm that declarations are correct before goods are cleared.

(b) Five functions of the airport authority

1. Provision of airport facilities: It builds and maintains runways, terminals, hangars and other infrastructure needed for aircraft to land, take off and be serviced.
2. Air traffic control: It guides and controls the movement of aircraft in the air and on the ground to ensure safe landing and take-off.
3. Provision of security: It screens passengers, baggage and cargo and maintains security to protect lives, aircraft and property against attack.
4. Handling of passengers and cargo: It provides check-in, immigration, customs points and cargo-handling services for the smooth processing of travellers and goods.
5. Provision of navigational and safety aids: It supplies weather information, lighting, fire-fighting and rescue services to support safe air transport.