Mr. C. WASONasked the Postmaster-General if, in view of the unsatisfactory nature of the mail service to Skerries, he will ascertain what subsidy the North of Scotland would require to run the "Earl of Zetland" weekly, or even fortnightly, from Lerwick?
§ Mr. PEASEThe present service between Whalsay and Skerries is considered adequate for postal purposes. I understand that the North of Scotland and Orkney and Shetland Steam Navigation Company are not prepared to undertake a steamer service to Skerries in existing. conditions.
Mr. C. WASONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been directed to the state of affairs at Skerries, Lerwick; that since then the position is worse, and that the residents can neither dispose of their fish nor get necessary provisions from the mainland; and if he will ascertain whether some relief can be obtained by the assistance of the Post Office, the Highlands and Islands Medical Board, the Admiralty, and the Scottish Board of Agriculture?
Sir A. STANLEYThe Board of Trade have no responsibility in regard to the disposal of fish by the residents or the provisioning of the island, but are charged only with the interests of the lighthouse service. So far as this service is concerned, the Board of Trade and the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses are prepared to co-operate with other public Departments in endeavouring to secure regular communication with the island by motor boat or otherwise.