An Isle of Wight-based Conservative campaigner is calling on Parliament to investigate the Island's ferry companies.
Ian Wellby argues that cross-Solent travel represents a critical lifeline service ill-suited to unregulated private ownership.
In a submission to the Transport Select Committee’s call for evidence, he outlined the adverse impact of poor connectivity on Islanders.
Mr Wellby highlighted issues ranging from limiting access to specialist mainland healthcare treatment through to poor inter-connectivity with the national rail network.
The submission also stressed that high fares and irregular services are holding back the Island’s economy, citing problems such as expensive and slow business deliveries.
It also highlighted issues for people traveling to and from work who rely on a regular service, who are often let down.
Commenting on his submission to the Select Committee, Mr Wellby said:
“Islanders are the victim of a botched privatisation leaving cross-Solent transport exclusively in the hands of private companies providing services entirely at their own discretion.
"This has resulted in the high ticket prices, lack of winter services and the poor railway connectivity we suffer from today.
"Poor cross-Solent travel is also holding back Island businesses, with issues ranging from expensive and slow business deliveries through to declining late-night hospitality demand.
"Scottish ferries are subsidised by the UK Government, while patients travelling to the mainland from the Isles of Scilly have their fares capped to just £5.
"I hope the Transport Select Committee will now listen to our concerns and finally deliver the meaningful long-term improvement in connectivity Islanders deserve.”
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