§ Mr. Malcolm MacMillanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when a decision will be given regarding a direct drive-on /drive-off vehicle ferry between Stornoway and the mainland, in view of the pressure on the Stornoway-Kyle vessel and the cost and time involved for many users compelled to route their vehicles and goods through a large part of Lewis and Harris, across Skye, and over Kyleakin-Kyle ferry before their mainland road journey; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RossThe possibility of introducing this service, and the implications which it would have for other services, are being discussed by the Scottish Transport Group, the Highlands and288W Islands Development Board and my Department in the context of the comprehensive review the Group is making of its shipping operations. I am not in a position to say when a decision will be reached.