Isle of Wight MPs Welcome Appointment of Brian Johnson CBE to Oversee Ferry Improvements

The Isle of Wight’s MPs have welcomed the appointment of Brian Johnson CBE as the independent chair of the newly formed Cross-Solent Transport Group, a move aimed at improving ferry services to and from the Island.

The Department for Transport announced the appointment yesterday (Wednesday 14 January).

Brian Johnson brings extensive maritime experience, having served as Chief Executive of the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency from 2018 to 2022, where he oversaw regulation and safety standards across the sector.

The Cross-Solent Transport Group was created following longstanding concerns over ferry pricing, frequency, and reliability.

In January 2025, the Prime Minister acknowledged during PMQs that services “simply have not been good enough.”

Richard Quigley MP said:

“After tireless efforts to engage with the government and the Department for Transport, this feels like a major milestone.

"We cannot afford to be complacent, but appointing Brian, someone with a proven and successful track record in maritime regulation, shows that the government is listening to the Island’s concerns.

"I look forward to working with Brian and the wider group to ensure our community’s voice is heard and that we finally secure the improvements we need.”

Joe Robertson MP added:

“It has taken nine long months for the Government to appoint a Chair of the Cross-Solent Group for ferries.

"I look forward to finally moving forward with detailed discussions based on facts: namely, that ferries have become more expensive, less frequent, and less reliable.

"I am pleased the Government remains involved.

"This is the opportunity for ferry companies to do the right thing by Islanders and visitors alike. If they refuse, the Government must step in and create regulations.”

The MPs’ statements reflect optimism that the new group will tackle the challenges facing the Island’s vital ferry links and deliver a more reliable, affordable service for residents and visitors.