§ Mr. MacDougallTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, if she will make a statement on the introduction of the ferry service from Rosyth to Europe. [73585]
§ Mrs. LiddellThe commencement earlier this year of Scotland's new direct ferry link with mainland Europe is a great boost to Scotland's environment with the potential for thousands of miles of lorry trips to be taken off our roads. It is more than just that though; it also improves our competitive position as an exporting nation and as a tourist destination. Exporters now have the option of a direct, regular & reliable route to our key markets in the heart of Europe and I would encourage freight companies to think carefully about making best use of this.
The establishment of this historic new ferry service is yet another example of how effective co-operation between Scottish Ministers and the Government within the devolution settlement is delivering tangible benefits to Scottish people and businesses in their daily lives.