HC Deb 18 April 1961 vol 638 c943
4. Mr. Willis

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he expects to complete his consideration of the new contract with Messrs. MacBrayne under the provisions of the Highlands and Islands Shipping Services Act, 1960.

The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Gilmour Lebnrn)

Negotiations are in progress with the company, but I cannot, at present, say when they will be completed.

Mr. Willis

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that certain difficulties are arising in some directions as a result of uncertainty about the future of this contract, and could he say when anything definite is likely to be known?

Mr. Leburn

I should be very grateful if the hon. Member will bring these difficulties to my notice. I would hope, if agreement is reached with the company, to be able to bring the matter before Parliament before the end of the year.

Mr. Willis

Cannot the Joint Under-Secretary say when he is likely to reach this agreement, and how long it will be before we know what has happened?

Mr. Leburn

If agreement is reached with the company, I hope to bring the undertaking before Parliament, as I have explained, before the end of the year, when the present arrangement expires.

Mr. Rankin

Which year?