Calls Grow For Future Solent Mayor To Have Ferry Powers

Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones has joined East Wight MP Joe Robertson in urging the Government to give a future Mayor of the Hampshire and Solent Combined Authority powers over cross-Solent transport.

Under current proposals for the new authority, the Mayor would oversee road, rail and bus services — but not ferries.

Both Ms Jones, who is also the Conservative candidate for next May’s Mayoral election, and Mr Robertson argue that must change.

Speaking at a Select Committee hearing on the English Devolution Bill yesterday (Tuesday), Ms Jones highlighted the unique geography of the Solent and the challenges faced by Islanders:

“It is cost prohibitive for a lot of people who want to travel off the Island.

"I will be asking for the right to request regulatory power over those ferry companies operating across the Solent.”

Mr Robertson has also pressed the new Maritime Minister, Keir Mather MP, to intervene.

He said the Isle of Wight is the only part of the UK dependent on unregulated private companies for essential travel.

“As ever, the Isle of Wight is being sidelined.

"The Government is creating a new Mayor with transport powers for road, rail and buses but not ferries.

"Ferry companies should not be given special treatment. When Isle of Wight councillors vote on 1st October, they should reject the deal and send it back to Government to include ferry powers.”

Isle of Wight councillors are due to vote on whether to agree to the Combined Mayor proposal on 1 October.