Question to the Department for Transport:
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the need for a regular ferry service between St Mary’s on the Isles of Scilly and the mainland; and what discussions have been held between ministers and ferry operators regarding the continuation of that service.
At present a regular passenger service is provided commercially during the summer season, and a freight service all year round, subject to inevitable weather disruption on occasion.
Previous Government contributions to port improvements at Penzance and St Mary's reflected an ongoing appreciation of the value of these services to the residents and the economy of the Isles of Scilly. My predecessor was in touch with the Steamship Group on these matters, and I understand that the company has indicated its intention to continue provision of services.