ECONOMIES OF THE UK ISLANDS DEBATE

I participated in a debate on Economies of the Islands and was able to point out the benefits that Road Equivalent Tariff has brought to the Islands, particularly Arran and Cumbrae.

An investment each year of £2.4 million in Road Equivalent Tariff (RET), reduced passenger and car fares on the Brodick route by 46% and 64% and on the Lochranza route by 55% and 66%.

Visitor numbers have grown dramatically, creating and sustaining jobs and investment, such as a new £10 million distillery and a major expansion of the Auchrannie hotel and spa.

A further £1.8 million a year supports RET for Cumbrae and Bute.

Whilst our islands face unique challenges this June, Holyrood will pass an Islands Bill that will ‘island proof’ all legislation in recognition of this.

Please click below to hear my speech: