§ 53. Mr. Mathers (for Mr. R. Gibson)asked the Minister of Transport whether, in consultation with the local authorities concerned, he will consider taking steps to establish a road-transport ferry between Gourock and Dunoon or the Holy Loch for the purpose of giving ready access to the Western Highlands from the south and of stimulating tourist traffic in that part of Scotland?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Captain Austin Hudson)There is at present a regular steamship service between Glasgow, Gourock, Dunoon and Rothesay which provides facilities, when required, for the transport of motor vehicles. Grants from the Road Fund are only made in respect of free ferries maintained by highway authorities and forming links between classified roads. In such cases, my right hon. Friend is prepared to consider proposals from the responsible highway authorities.