§ Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Minister of Transport what representations she has received about the reduction of ferry services between North and South Shields and the increased charges; and what action she proposes to take to assist the authorities concerned to maintain the services, in view of their importance for those working on both sides of the river.
§ Mr. CarmichaelThe Tynemouth and South Shields Councils have made representations about the proposed increase in charges, and these will be taken into account after the statutory advertisement of the proposal. We have had no representations about the service reductions, which do not require my right hon. Friend's consent, but 11 letters asking that a ferry service be maintained.
It is, in the first place, for the operators and the local authorities to decide what services are required since the opening 74W of the Tyne Tunnel, and how they should be maintained, in the light of the provisions of the Transport Bill. We are, however, considering certain ideas suggested by the operators.