§ Mr. Corrieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what increases are expected on freight and passenger services to the islands as a result of the Government's cuts in subsidy to Caledonian MacBrayne; and whether he anticipates the increases will fall on the ratepayers or on passengers and freight.
§ Mr. McElhoneNo cuts have been made. My right hon. Friend proposed to regional and Islands councils on 26th 433W October 1976 that they should take responsibility for some local and minor shipping and ferry services. This proposal and how the services might be financed in future are still under discussion, but the transfer will not itself lead to an increase in charges.