§ Mr. Grimondasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the National Board for Prices and Incomes has reported on the proposal by the North of Scotland, Orkney and Shetland Shipping Company Limited to increase charges; and what action he proposes to take.
§ Mr. RossThe Board's Report is being published today. The company is being informed that I shall not object to the increases of 10 per cent. in certain freight rates and in summer passenger fares which the Board recommends as consistent with prices policy.
I am arranging for early consultation with the company, both county councils and the Highlands and Islands Development Board on the further recommendations in the Report about winter fares, the structure of charges and the financing of any deficit in the future.