Harwich and Felixstowe’s bid to become a freeport was approved by the Government in March.
Freeport status means areas will benefit from tax reliefs and simplified customs procedures in order to encourage economic activity.
Speaking in the House of Commons on Monday, the Harwich and North Essex MP argued tax incentives provided by the upcoming freeport are necessary, but that more support is needed.
Sir Bernard said the tax incentives that come with freeport status alone were not sufficient enough to deliver on the ‘levelling up’ agenda.
He said: “I wish to emphasise the Freeport East was very much driven by the need for levelling up.