§ Mr. Gowasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what discussions he has had with the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company about financial assistance to that company by the Government; and if he will make a statement.
§ Dr. GilbertThere have been discussions over the last year between this Department and the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company about the problems of providing a new ferry to replace the "Scillonian". I announced on 31st October the Government's decision to assist towards the cost of a new vessel by means of a repayable grant under Section 56 of the Transport Act 1968.