HC Deb 12 February 1982 vol 17 cc480-1W
Mr. Corrie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what conclusions he has reached on the operation of ferry services between Gourock and Dunoon; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Younger

In responding to the recommendation of the Scottish Transport Users Consultative Committee on Caledonian MacBrayne's proposed withdrawal from the route, I announced on 12 October 1981 that a passenger service would continue to be provided by Caledonian MacBrayne between Gourock and Dunoon piers. I asked Caledonian MacBrayne to consider how best to provide such a service. In the light of its examination and following discussions with those concerned I now propose that Caledonian MacBrayne should continue to operate an hourly passenger and vehicle service between Gourock and Dunoon. Future subsidy for this service is now intended to be in respect only of carrying foot passengers and will be less than in previous years.

The draft undertaking with Western Ferries will not now be implemented.