HC Deb 04 February 1975 vol 885 cc490-1W
Mr. Donald Stewart

asked the Secreretary of State for Scotland what part his Department is taking in the efforts to provide ferries to Eriskay and Vatersay in the Western Isles.

Mr. William Ross

As to Eriskay, I understand that South Uist District Council has asked Inverness County Council to consider providing a vehicle ferry terminal on Eriskay for a new ferry service between South Uist, Eriskay and Barra, and that the county council is consulting the Scottish Transport Group about this. I have not been asked, as yet to provide assistance.

As to Vatersay, Inverness County Council is purchasing a vessel to provide a small vehicle ferry service between Castlebay and Vatersay. I have offered the county council assistance of 75 per cent. of the capital cost of the vessel and of temporary terminals under Section 34 of the Transport Act 1968.