HC Deb 07 March 1995 vol 256 cc110-1W
Mr. Stewart

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what amount of revenue deficit grant he proposes to make available to Caledonian MacBrayne in 1995–96.

Mr. Lang

Subject to approval of the estimates, I propose to make available to Caledonian MacBrayne in 1995–96 revenue deficit grant amount to £8.3 million.

The proposed amount reflects an increased requirement for grant compared with the 1994–95 level and takes into account the effect of the proposed closure of the company's Kyle of Lochalsh-Kyleakin service when the Skye bridge opens later in 1995. the costs associated with the introduction, also later in 1995, of a major new vessel on the Ullapool to Stornoway service and the costs of compliance with additional safety requirements on vessels.