Thanks to Ed for sharing this latest news from the IW Labour Party. Ed
Labour Party members heard the arguments for and against a Solent Tunnel Fixed Link from speakers from the pro and anti campaigns at their meeting last week.
For
Chris Dodd, Secretary of the Pro-Link Campaign Association, set out the details for a link that should provide a £10 each way fare for cars and £60-100 for HGVs and produce considerable benefits for the Island economy and wage levels.
Against
David Henshall, who has been involved in Anti-Fixed Link campaigns, talked about the loss of jobs on the ferries, the likelihood of a merger of services with Hampshire, the effect on house prices and the danger of losing our Island uniqueness.
Results of straw poll
Ed Gouge, Island Labour Secretary said,
“Any decision on a Fixed Link will in the end be taken by Islanders but, given the cost and unreliability of the ferries, it is important that the issues are aired. A straw poll at the meeting gave a narrow majority against a fixed road link.
“Local party policy has been for a rail link and we want to see public control of the ferries. National policy is to bring rail franchises back into public ownership.”
Image: © Robert Forrest
