Constructive talks with the Maritime Minister this week marked another step forward on ferry regulation. Joe Robertson MP recently met with the new Maritime Minister, Keir Mather, to keep the case for ferry regulation firmly on the Government’s agenda.
The productive discussion centred on options for creating new regulatory powers to ensure fairer ferry services for the Isle of Wight.
Mr Robertson said, "I made clear that the Isle of Wight is the only part of the UK entirely dependent on unregulated private equity firms for essential travel.
The Minister understands that there is strong local consensus for change, but he now needs to help deliver it. He could create regulatory powers for the new "Solent" Mayor if he doesn't want the Department for Transport remaining involved.
I am looking forward to the new task force with an independent DfT appointed chair getting under way."
