We always welcome a Letter to the Editor to share with readers. If you have something you’d like to share, get in touch. This letter from Unite delegate IW TUC, Bob Blocksidge from Freshwater. Ed
For the past few weeks there has been a lot of discussion on the subject of a Solent Tunnel “Fixed Link”. Some arguing for it and the benefits of being able to move people and goods, easily to and from the Island. While others argue that installing a “Fixed Link”, would destroy the peace and tranquillity of the Island.
In his letter to the CP last week, D Penberthy makes the point about the possible effect on house prices and the increase in traffic on Island roads, if a “Fixed Link” was ever installed. He goes on to further point out that our beloved ferry companies would, due to the competition from the “Fixed Link”, be forced out of business.
No chance
I would, firstly like to put his mind at rest, in my opinion there is absolutely no chance of a fixed link being installed, no matter how many people want it, or don’t want it.
The finances required to build such a structure would obviously be prohibitive to the IW County Council, even if it wanted to do it.
The same, even more so, would apply to the government, which, in my view, is hell bent on destroying, rather than building anything.
Private capital?
Could private capital be used? I doubt it. Private capital would give the impression, of being extremely reluctant to invest in Britain, let alone the Island.
It would appear that Capitalism is more interested in maximising profits, through avoiding taxes, than investing.
Ferry monopoly
I therefore conclude that the whole argument about the ”Fixed Link” is a red herring and a diversion from the debate about Wightlink and Red Funnel having monopolies on their routes.
Due to their monopoly position, they can charge whatever they like and run, what used to be known as service whenever they choose.
We should campaign for the ferry to taken back into public ownership and be run as a service for the people of the Island.
Dare to struggle, dare to win.
Image: Mike Baird under CC BY 2.0
