HC Deb 01 December 1977 vol 940 cc389-90W
Mr. Sillars

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what estimate he has made of the central Government subsidy for ferries serving the Scottish island communities.

Mr. McElhone

In addition to support given to local authorities through rate support grant, the following revenue grants are being paid for the current financial year.

£
Caledonian MacBrayne Ltd 2,600,000
David MacBrayne Ltd 900,000
Orkney Islands Shipping Company Ltd. 305,000

Mr. Sillars

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is able to estimate the cost to central Government if he were to operate the concept of the extension of the highway to ferries serving the Scottish Island communities.

Mr. McElhone

At least twice present levels of support, which stand at £3.8 million a year.

Mr. Sillars

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many ferries now serve the Island communities in Scotland; what is the age of each; and what is the planned replacement programme.

Mr. McElhone

A number of different operators provide services to the Scotttish Islands. Information about the Scottish Transport Group's ships is given in the group's report and accounts for 1976, laid before Parliament on 4th May 1977.