§ 23. Major McCallumasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the concern caused not only to the inhabitants of the Western Highlands, but to other essential traffic, by the unsatisfactory manner in which the Corran motor-car ferry across the narrows of Loch Linnhe is maintained; and whether, in view of the waste of time, petrol and tyres 505 involved in making a 40-mile detour when the ferry-boat is at the bottom of the loch, or otherwise out of action, he will endeavour to have this motor-car ferry taken over by the Argyll and/or Inverness local authorities, or by the Ministry of War Transport?
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Westwood)My right hon. Friend has not previously received any representations on the subject of the ferry at Corran, which already belongs to the county councils of Argyll and Inverness and is run under the supervision of a joint committee of these councils. On inquiry, I am informed that the joint committee is considering future arrangements, in the light of recent difficulties.
§ Major McCallumIs not the Minister aware that the difficulties in connection with this ferry have been going on for at least three years? Although the ferry is owned by the county councils of Argyll and Inverness, it is leased to a private company. Will not my hon. Friend see whether some ararngement can be made to take action speedily to remedy the present state of affairs?
§ Mr. WestwoodWe shall have to await the result of the meeting which has been arranged for the 3rd of this month. No time will be wasted by the committee in dealing with this problem.