§ 49. Mr. KennedyTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will report on progress towards(a) upgrading of the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry service between Kyle of Lochalsh and Kyleakin and (b) the provision of a bridge to Skye; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonFollowing the recent discussions I have had with Highland regional council, I believe that private funding could provide the way forward for the provision of a bridge in the near future. It is, however, for Highland regional council to decide whether to take the project forward. I have indicated to it that it would receive the support of my officials in the Scottish Development Department in the practical processes involved should it determine to go ahead. I look forward to learning of its decision in due course.
I am aware of the pressures on the existing ferry service to Skye in the face of the increasing traffic demands. A 164W decision on the bridge is, however, essential before a full assessment of the economic case for replacement ferries can be undertaken.