§ Mr. R. Gibsonasked the Postmaster-General on what grounds he has withdrawn the subsidy formerly paid to the Loch Shiel Steamship Company; what was the amount of the subsidy; whether he is aware that the withdrawal of the subsidy means the closing down of this steamship service, to the serious hardship of the population presently served; and whether he will reconsider the said withdrawal and so safeguard this service in the public interest?
§ Major TryonNo subsidy is paid to the company by the Post Office, but they hold a contract for services rendered, namely, the conveyance of mails, for which they receive a payment of £400 per annum. The postal services in the district are being entirely reorganised and greatly improved, and this involves curtailment of the use of the steamer, and a corresponding reduction of the mail payment.
As regards the maintenance of public facilities other than postal services, I understand that the hon. Member has another question on the Order Paper for Wednesday next.