§ Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Minister of Transport what decision has been reached on the application for an increase in fares charged on the ferry between North and South Shields; and whether he will make a statement about the result of discussions about the ferry service that his Department held with the local authorities and the ferry operator.
Mr. Bob BrownNo decision has been reached on the application to increase fares. The local authorities are now discussing proposals for the future of the ferry service, which is a matter only they can decide.