Joe Robertson Joins Roundtable on Ferries in Cowes, Calls for Government Action on Pricing, Timetables, and Reliability
Joe Robertson, MP for Isle of Wight East joined a crucial roundtable discussion on ferry services in Cowes, hosted by Mike Kane, the Government Minister responsible for Maritime. The meeting also included West Wight MP Richard Quigley, ferry company representatives, and key local stakeholders.
The key outcome of the roundtable is the Government's commitment to remain engaged with the issue, with the Department of Transport agreeing to review key aspects of ferry services, including pricing, timetables, and reliability. This marks a significant step forward in addressing the ongoing challenges facing ferry services on the Isle of Wight.
Joe Robertson said, "The key takeaway from the meeting is that this is not a one-off event. The Government will stay involved with the DfT looking into pricing, timetables and reliability.
I remain of the view – which I expressed unequivocally at the meeting – that the ferry companies cannot be relied upon to act and make sufficient changes in the interests of the Island without Government involvement. They have had 20 years to show they understand but in that time prices have gone up and timetables have dwindled. Over £300 for a return car trip for Islanders or visitors is not acceptable at any time. The unregulated private equity model doesn’t work. Lifeline services for rail, buses and ferries elsewhere do not operate in that way so why should the Isle of Wight be made to tolerate this uniquely vulnerable position."
