Two more parish councils have voiced their support for an investigation into cross-Solent ferry fares. Godshill and Shorwell have told Island MP Andrew Turner they back his campaign, Ferry Fares Fair? They want the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to investigate.

Judith Diment, clerk to Godshill council told Mr Turner: “It is felt very strongly that the continual large price rises, plus limiting conditions on tickets, is causing hardship to many families, who are unable to visit families on the mainland (and vice versa) as they would wish.

“The prices are also bound to affect the tourist industry, which is the life blood of the Island. When faced with the huge prices charged in the season, it is no wonder many abandon plans to travel here and drive, instead, to either the Continent or the West Country. Action needs to be taken now.”

As part of his submission to the OFT Mr Turner is circulating 30,000 leaflets which make the case for an investigation and calls for constituents' reactions. They are being rolled out across the Island by members of the Women's Institutes and Townswomen's Guilds.

Businesses such as shops, hairdressers, hotels and takeaways are being invited to get involved.
Mr Turner said: “It would have been impossible without the wonderful support of the WIs and TGs to distribute so many leaflets and I am very grateful to them.

“I have delivered many of them personally to presidents, chair persons and secretaries and, from the feedback, I know many people feel strongly about the way we are treated by the ferry companies. This is not a party-political issue, it is an Island issue.”

Mr Turner wrote to parish councils in January asking for their comments.

The support of individuals and councils will carry a lot of weight with the OFT when it considers my submission,” added Mr Turner.

People who want to support the campaign on line should go to www.islandmp.org
END Contact : Andrew Turner’s office 01983 530808