HC Deb 23 March 1920 vol 127 c245
62. Dr. MURRAY

asked the Secretary for Scotand whether, in view of the difficulties and risks attending the transport of passengers, as well as of food and other supplies, across dangerous fords in the island of Benbecula, he will endeavour to arrange for mail and cargo steamers to call at Petersport in that island or, if that is not possible, whether he is prepared, through the Board of Agriculture or otherwise, to construct a safe landing place in the island?

The SECRETARY for SCOTLAND (Mr. Munro)

As my hon. Friend may be aware, the Rural Transport (Scotland) Committee have recommended that Benbecula should be served by a coasting steamer, of smaller size than the mail steamers, which would call at various ports on the cast coast of the Long Island. Such a boat would be able to call at Petersport, Benbecula, and accordingly, were this proposal adopted, the construction of a new landing place on the island would be unnecessary. The Committee's recommendation is at present under consideration, along with other proposals as to Hebridean steamer services.