HC Deb 10 February 1927 vol 202 cc292-3
68. Mr. MacKENZIE LIVINGSTONE

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has received a communication from the Stornoway Town Council urging the need for an increase in size, speed, and commodiousness of the mail steamer; whether he has given serious consideration to the request of this body; and what steps la is taking to provide this desired improvement in the transport facilities of the West Highlands?

Sir J. GILMOUR

the answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The Town Council have been informed, in reply, that the matter is receiving close attention and that their representations will be kept in view. I am in communication with the company on the subject.

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that whereas sea communication in every part of the world is better now or at least as good as it was before the War, in the Western Islands the service has grown steadily worse?

Sir I. GILMOUR

The right hon. Gentleman is probably aware of the very difficult conditions, but I have every reason to believe that they will steadily improve this year.

Mr. MACLEAN

Do the Government lay down any condition in connection with the granting of subsidies to steamship companies that before they give the subsidy they must see that the service to the West Islands is adequate?

Mr. LIVINGSTONE

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether he or his Department or any other Government Department have asked this company to put a better steamer on this route?

Sir J. GILMOUR

Yes, Sir. I have been in negotiation with the company about replacement and the building of a new boat for that route, and I have every reason to believe that that will shortly materialise. In regard to the supplementary question put by the hon. Member for Govan (Mr. Maclean) I may say that the usual regulations in regard to seaworthiness are, of course, fully considered in all these matters.

Mr. MACLEAN

Have the Government satisfied themselves that the steamer is seaworthy?

Sir J. GILMOUR

Yes.

Mr. MACLEAN

Will you take a trip in it?

Mr. LIVINGSTONE

Has the right hon. Gentleman asked for a better boat; not a new boat only, but a better boat?

Sir J. GILMOUR

If it is a new boat it will certainly be a better boat.