Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether the UK subsidy control regime precludes financial support for a direct continental ferry service by the Scottish Government.

The UK subsidy control regime is flexible and permissive. Subsidies are permitted provided that a public authority adheres to the legal process provided in the Act including the requirements of the UK's international obligations. The regime allows devolved administrations and local authorities to give subsidies that are tailored to local needs and drive economic growth. It is for individual public authorities to assess the consistency of any proposed subsidy with the regime. My officials stand ready to help all public authorities understand the regime.