Question 1 Report
A regional transport authority is considering applications from firms that want to operate a new electric ferry service. One established firm already owns the harbour berths and has a long-term licence to use them. Consumers demand reliable journeys, but a new firm would face high costs before it could earn any profit.
(a) Which factor is most likely to prevent a new firm entering this market?
A lower prices charged by the existing firm
B exclusive access to the harbour berths
C an increase in workers' wages in another industry
D greater demand for ferry travel [1]
(b) Explain how the factor chosen in part (a) can reduce competition and affect prices in this market. [3]
(a) The factor most likely to prevent entry is exclusive access to the harbour berths. [1]
(b) A new ferry firm cannot obtain a suitable place to dock and load passengers, or it must pay high costs to obtain alternative facilities. [1] This makes entry difficult or raises the entrant’s costs. [1] With fewer firms able to supply the service, the established firm has greater market power and may charge higher prices, while consumers have less choice. [1]
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