§ Mr. Dewar asked the Secretary of State for Scotland under what authority he instructed Caledonian MacBrayne to restrict its ferry operation between Gourock and Dunoon to pedestrian traffic.
§ Mr. Rifkind:My right hon. Friend has given no instruction to Caledonian MacBrayne, which is now considering, and will be reporting on, the best means of providing a passenger service.
Mr. Dewar asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what annual revenue subsidy he is proposing to make to 435W Caledonian MacBrayne as a contribution to the costs of operating a passenger ferry between Gourock and Dunoon; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Rifkind:My right hon. Friend's statement of 12 October made it clear that he was prepared to provide a subsidy, if necessary, for a passenger service between Gourock and Dunoon. Caledonian MacBrayne is now exploring urgently the best means of providing such a service and will be reporting to him. He will then be in a position to consider questions of subsidy.
Mr. Dewar asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what information he has as to the additional financing requirements of Caledonian MacBrayne attributable to the purchase of a suitable vessel by Caledonian MacBrayne for the carriage of pedestrian traffic; and if he plans to make any contribution.
§ Mr. Rifkind:Caledonian MacBrayne is now considering how a passenger service might be provided on the Gourock—Dunoon route. My Department will be discussing with the company what financing arrangements will be necessary.
Mr. Dewar asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had with Caledonian MacBrayne about the implications for it of the sale of the vessels "Juno" and "Jupiter", and of any consequent redundancies, following his decision to restrict the company to the carriage of pedestrian traffic on the Gourock—Dunoon ferry.
§ Mr. Rifkind:Discussions are continuing with Caledonian MacBrayne on these issues.