This from Bob Seely, Conservative prospective parliamentary candidate for Isle of Wight West, in his own words. Ed
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.
Confirmed in Conservative Party’s manifesto
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.”
Seely: We need a better deal on the ferries
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.”
Bob’s plan
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.
