HC Deb 23 March 1926 vol 193 cc1016-8
33. Mr. MACQUISTEN

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been called to the inadequate transport services for the island of Lismore and the community of Lochgoilhead, in Argyll; and what steps he proposes to take to remedy this state of affairs?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I have received representations regarding the means of communication between the island of Lismore and Oban. The particular suggestion which has been made is that the mail steamer which runs between Oban and places on the Sound of Mull should be diverted to call at Lismore. Such diversion would, I am informed, seriously disorganise the mail services in the more distant places which are dependent on this steamer. Lismore, which is distant only a few miles from Oban, is at present served by an efficient mail motor boat as w ell as by cargo steamers which call less frequently, and in the circumstances I regret that the desire that the mail steamer should be diverted to Lismore cannot be acceded to. I have received no representations respecting the transport services to Lochgoilhead.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Lismore has not been able to get a daily boat and that the motor boat is very small and is very often indequate to meet heavy weather; is it not also the case that in such circumstances these people are left without any communication at all, that there is nothing to convey food or cattle, and that at Lochgoilhead they have only a small boat on which the passengers are mixed up with cattle?

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

As the hon. and 1earned Member appears to recognise the futility of private enterprise in this matter, will the Secretary of State for Scotland give him a dose of Socialism in this area?

Mr. MACQUISTEN

When will the right hon. Gentleman be in a position to issue the Report of the Departmental Inquiry into the transport in the Western Isles, as the question is urgent?

Sir J. GILMOUR

All these matters are being carefully considered and, if any representations are made to me, I shall endeavour to see that attention is given to them.

Mr. HUTCHISON

Can the right hon. Gentleman give us any indication as to the name of the steamer which communicates with Lochgoilhead?

Sir J. GILMOUR

No, Sir. I have not that information.