HC Deb 18 July 1973 vol 860 cc460-1
2. Mr. Donald Stewart

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what control is exercised in the day-to-day operation of shipping activities by the Scottish Transport Group over Caledonian MacBrayne Limited; and if he will make a statement.

The Under-Secretary of State for Development, Scottish Office (Mr. George Younger)

These are management matters, which are the group's own responsibility.

Mr. Stewart

I am sorry that the Minister has not given the assurance that was implied in the Question. During the recent trouble with the ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway it was believed that the shipping company had acted promptly to overcome the lack of a vessel and was overborne by the Scottish Transport—

Mr. Speaker

Order. The hon. Member must put his remarks in the form of a question.

Mr. Stewart

Is the Minister aware that in future the shipping company should have a say in the day-to-day running of the ferry services? May I again thank the Minister for his attendance and assistance at the meeting held in Stornoway?

Mr. Younger

I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for that comment. I enjoyed my visit to Stornoway and was glad to be present at the inauguration of the service. I met the town council and we had a useful meeting. I expressed the regrets of all concerned at the inconvenience suffered by some passengers in the early days of the service. We must bear in mind, however, that this is now a far better service than Stornoway has ever had before, with a service twice a day instead of once a day, and a service that is quicker, with better carrying capacity and a better turn-round. I asked the council whether it would give the new service a fair trial, and it agreed to do so.