The next phase of the campaign to get Islanders a better deal on cross-Solent ferries has begun.

Island MP Andrew Turner is planning to give Islanders more opportunities to give evidence of their experiences of the ferry services, which he can present to the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) as part of his ‘ferry fares fare?’ campaign.

He plans to distribute thousands of leaflets in outlets such as shops, surgeries, takeaways. The leaflets include a space for comments. You can also put your comment on his website – www.islandmp.org .

Mr Turner said: “The more people respond the more influence it will have on the OFT. I have already received thousands of replies but I want more to persuade the OFT to investigate in detail the IW ferry services, to see if they provide a fair deal for Islanders. Following a meeting with officials from the OFT I have taken their advice and I am currently doing more work on my submission but meanwhile I would be happy for even more people to let me know how they feel about the services.

“The last proper investigation into the cross-Solent ferry market was in 1991.”

The Island’s Federation of Women’s Institutes and the 11 branches of the Townswomen’s Guild are backing the campaign and, in the next few weeks, I hope they will be able to assist in distributing and collecting the leaflets.

Meanwhile, Mr Turner is asking any businesses and organisation which want to be distribution points to contact his parliamentary office at 24 The Mall, Carisbrooke Road, Newport, PO30 1BW, Tel 530808 or e-mail mail@islandmp.org. He would like leaflets available in doctor and dentist surgeries, shops and anywhere where the public would be able to pick them up and return them.

Mr Turner re-emphasised: “This is not a party-political campaign, it is far too important! This affects all of us on the Island and many on the mainland. We must work together to get the best possible result for everyone who uses Island ferry services. ”