§ Mr. Malcolm MacMillanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he has taken, and will take, to assist financially or otherwise the establishment and operation of the ferry service proposed to be operated by Mr. Charles Alexander and others between Stornoway and Ullapool; and what help he proposes to offer towards the cost of necessary port installations.
§ Mr. NobleI am aware of Mr. Alexander's proposal and I have sought the advice of the Highland Transport Board on it. I have not received any application for such financial assistance. Should an application be made I would consider it in relation to the existing sea services to Lewis supplemented as they will shortly be by the introduction of the new MacBrayne car ferries and in the light of the advice of the Highland Transport Board.