§ 53. Mr. JOHNSTONasked the Secreretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the indignation in the island of Barra over the proposals he has announced for the future of the steamer service to the island; that Barra is not one of the inner isles; that frequently the steamer via Coll and Tiree is unable to face the Minch; that sometimes passengers for Barra have been put ashore at Tobermory and compelled to get a passage home on a trawler; and that the route from Tiree to Barra is the most dangerous in the western seas; and whether he can take steps to ensure that the pre-war direct service from Tobermory to Barra will be resumed?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI have received no communication from Barra, but I am aware that some dissatisfaction has been expressed. The present service gives a connection both with Oban and Mallaig, which was desired by the islanders, and the traffic does not warrant separate services to Coll and Tiree and to Barra. I am informed that only on 11 occasions during the last 2½ years has the steamer been unable to cross the Minch. I have no information as to the utilisation of trawlers on any of these occasions. The crossing is undoubtedly exposed, but the service has been well maintained, and it is not apparent that the exclusion of Coll and Tiree from the itinerary would obviate the difficulty which is experienced in stormy weather. In the circumstances I can see no good 404 reason for an alteration of this service, beyond the arrangements for replacing the present boat to which reference was made in the statement submitted to the House on the 1st instant.
§ Mr. JOHNSTONWill the right hon. Gentleman give the House an opportunity of discussing this revised contract before it is finally completed, and is he aware that in the contract as he has announced it, there is to be no reduction of freights on exported goods, and that frequently goods have been allowed to lie rotting on the pier for days together?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI understand that the contract will in due course come before the House.