Gosport Ferry 'support package' is still under discussion, transport minister Kelly Tolhurst tells Portsmouth MP

Portsmouth South MP Stephen Morgan today asked about the progress on talks held between the firm, Hampshire, Portsmouth and Gosport councils, and the Department for Transport.

It comes after a major drop in passengers during lockdown has seen the ferry struggle to make its income match its outgoing spending.

In response to Mr Morgan, transport minister Kelly Tolhurst told the House of Commons: ‘The Gosport Ferry service provides an important service for the local community with regards to navigating their way around the peninsula and that's why myself [and] my right honourable friend (transport secretary Grant Shapps), met the council leaders.

‘We've spoken with the organisation and my officials are working with the councils to find a support package for the operators in order to maintain that service.’

Earlier she said: ‘My honourable friend, my officials and I are working with the company and the councils alongside the extensive financial packages announced by the chancellor.’

Her response alluding to a ‘support package’ came when Mr Morgan asked how the government is supporting cycling and walking infrastructure.

The exchange during transport questions today comes after transport secretary Grant Shapps was said to be mulling over proposals over the weekend.

Talks between the firm, councils and Mr Shapps and Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage were held this month.

All councils are prepared to put forward cash, but the business and government has been asked to do the same.

Gosport Ferry, owned by FIH group which last year made £3m in profit, has lost 90 per cent of passengers since lockdown.

Councils have suspended £42,000 monthly payments due to them from the lifeline service.

This includes lease costs for the Gosport pontoon.

The company has around £150,000 worth of bills to pay each month.

The firm, which is operating social distancing on its vessels, has furloughed 16 of its 36 staff.

In a statement Mr Morgan said: ‘I know how important the Gosport Ferry is for my constituents and commuters along the south coast which is why I have been working with others to secure its future.

‘It’s a lifeline service for many who rely on it for work, business and leisure.

The coronavirus crisis has shone a spotlight on how crucial the crossing service is for the people of Gosport, and Portsmouth.’

He added: 'Government has already given positive signals and has engaged on the issue so far. However, we cannot afford to lose steam.

‘Portsmouth jobs, businesses and livelihoods are what is at risk. I will continue to take action on behalf of residents to ensure a suitable solution is reached to secure the ferry’s future.’

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