Bob Seely has secured a manifesto commitment from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for a review of the Solent ferries.
The review will look at “all options” to promote greater competition and drive down fares to provide a fairer service for Islanders.
The commitment has been confirmed in the Conservative Party’s manifesto, which specifically referenced cross-Solent ferries.
The manifesto said: "Recognising the current challenges with cross-Solent transport, we will establish a review to explore all options to provide more choice and drive down fares.”
Welcoming the commitment, Bob said: “For too long, Red Funnel and Wightlink have been letting Islanders down. In the past few years, the situation has got worse. It’s our Number One issue.
“We need a better deal on the ferries. I am the only candidate with a plan. I produced the first detailed study for a generation on the ferries, from an Island point of view, and I have persuaded Government to act.”
As part of his campaign for better ferry services, Bob’s plan has been to:
- Release a detailed study to show how the ferries have become: less frequent, slower, more expensive and more unreliable.
- Work with firms to set up rival cross-Solent services.
- Engage with Government – and get a commitment to a review.
“There is a clear choice at the next election. Me continuing to deliver on my promises to deliver a better deal, or other parties who don’t have a plan for the Island or the ferries.”
