§ Mr. WallaceTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will publish the estimated timetable for the tender and award of franchises for the passenger ferry services to Orkney and Shetland; and if he will make a statement. [75680]
§ Mr. DewarMy hon. Friend the Minister with responsibility for transport in Scotland announced on 14 October 1998 the start of a competitive tendering process for a subsidy to provide lifeline ferry services to the Orkney and Shetland Islands from 2002.
A draft initial proposals document was issued on 22 December 1998 to the Islands Councils and others for comments. Comments received are currently being assessed. A shortlist of potential operators is being draw up. Those selected will be invited soon to submit initial proposals for the services. It is estimated that an award of a contract will be made before the end of 1999.
From 1 July 1999, this will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament.