Whether any consultation has taken place between Caledonian MacBrayne and those responsible for drawing up the draft specifications for the…

Scottish Executive officials have consulted Caledonian MacBrayne on a broad range of operational issues in preparation for the consultation exercise on the future tendering of Clyde and Hebridean Isles ferry services. We plan to issue that consultation paper as soon as possible. The Caledonian MacBrayne review of the Islay route has only just been initiated and its conclusions will be considered by ministers once it has been completed.Decisions on the timing, specification and cost of replacement vessels for the fleet serving Clyde and Hebrides ferry services and on investment at piers and harbours currently owned by Caledonian MacBrayne, including decisions on any investment affecting the Islay route, will be taken as part of the present spending review.