§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if, in view of the vulnerability of the Portaferry-Strangford ferry vessel to mechanical breakdown after four years of continuous service, he will consider grant-aiding a second ferry vessel.
§ Mr. Peter MillsMy noble Friend the Minister of State met a deputation from the Down County Council, which is responsible for operating the Portaferry-86W Strangford Ferry, last September. It was agreed that the council would re-examine the case for a second vessel and it is now in correspondence with the Ministry of Development. Any question of Government financial assistance will be reviewed in the light of these further investigations.