§ 61. Mr. T. HENDERSONasked the Secretary for Scotland who are the contractors for ferrying between Lochalsh and Kyleakin and the contract price for the said ferry services; whether he is satisfied that the ferry charges are reasonable; and would he be prepared to consider the offer of ex-service men to provide a better and cheaper service than now exists?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)I have been asked to reply. The arrangements with regard to this ferry are not under my control, but I have communicated with the London, Midland and Scottish Railway Company, who own the ferry rights, and am informed that the contractor for ferrying is Mr. John Clark of Kyleakin, Skye, and that he pays an annual rent of £100 to the company under a lease which expires in about two years. In the circumstances, it would not appear to be practicable for 246 the company to make arrangements on the lines indicated in the last part of the hon. Member's question.
§ Mr. HENDERSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the great dissatisfaction among the farming community with regard to the fees charged for the use of the ferry, and does he think it wise? Will he make inquiries?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI will make further inquiries.