By Carole Dennett
West Wight MP, Richard Quigley, has raised the Island’s ferry issues with the Prime Minister‑in‑waiting, Andy Burnham.
Mr Quigley told the IW Observer: “I met with Andy Burnham last week, and, as usual, the first subject I raised was cross‑Solent transport. I’ve also had two meetings with his policy team and made sure they are fully aware of the issues. It will continue to be top of my list.”
As Mayor of Greater Manchester, Mr Burnham created the Bee Network, using bus franchising legislation to bring services back under public control for the first time in nearly 40 years. The model was designed to tackle long‑standing problems with unreliable services and rising fares. Private companies were not compensated for losing their former commercial routes; instead, they were free to bid for new contracts under the franchised system.
Some have suggested that similar legislation could be explored to address cross‑Solent transport, arguing that a public‑control model could offer greater accountability, clearer service standards, and more reliable pricing for residents and businesses.
Mr Quigley said he would continue pressing the case: “Cross‑Solent transport affects every part of Island life – from business and tourism to healthcare and education. It’s vital that the next Prime Minister understands the scale of the problem and the need for meaningful change.”
Chris Cornford