§ 24. Sir J. Gilmourasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what consultations he has had with respect to the interruption of the Tay Ferry services; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LeburnI understand that, because the bridge works will he in the course used by the ferries when the tide is low, the ferries will shortly have to stop for periods of one to three hours on either side of each low water. Unfortunately neither the Tay Bridge Joint Board, nor the Harbour Authority, which operates the ferry, nor British Railways have been able to suggest a practicable method of transporting vehicles during these periods, although the railways expect to be able to deal with passengers. The Automobile Association, in agreement with the authorities concerned, is to signpost the alternative route via Perth and to put up special signs indicating to drivers how they can find out whether the ferries are running.
§ Sir J. GilmourWould my hon. Friend consult the Dundee Harbour Trust, in view of the recent announcement by the National Research Development Corporation that it is prepared to assist prospective Hovercraft operators in selecting a vehicle which might be suitable? As this could be used on the Tay for only a short time, will my hon. Friend join the Dundee Harbour Trust and take advantage of the efforts which the National Research Development Corporation is making to popularise this craft, which could then be used elsewhere in Scotland?
§ Mr. LeburnI should be delighted to consult the Harbour Trust on this possible project. I think I might warn my hon. Friend that I hardly foresee Hovercraft being able to cope with the vehicle traffic which is here involved, but I should be delighted to discuss it.
§ Sir J. GilmourWill my hon. Friend consult the National Research Development Corporation urgently, because its publicity has indicated that this is exactly the type of vessel which it is trying to develop to sell elsewhere in the world?
§ Mr. LeburnThat is good news. I will certainly take it into account.