Following a report in the Mail on Sunday Andrew Turner the Island’s MP has labelled the idea that photo ID would be required to board Isle of Wight ferries as ‘plainly daft’.

The story suggested that powers contained within the Police and Justice Act of 2006 designed to counter terrorism and organised crime by recording the details of passengers on domestic flights and ferry services could be extended to Isle of Wight ferry services. It was reported that a Home Office spokesman had confirmed that the Island would be included in the new measures due to be announced later this year. The Home Office has subsequently confirmed that there are no plans for this to happen.

Mr Turner said:
“If a Home Office spokesman did say such a thing then he clearly needs his head examining. The idea that counter terrorism legislation should be applied to the Island is plainly daft. You can drive from John O’Groats to Lands End without needing any ID – why should the Island be singled out simply because you need a ferry to reach us? I have asked the Home Secretary what investigations she has made into terrorism and organised crime on the Isle of Wight and look forward with interest to her answer.”

END Contact : Andrew Turner’s office 01983 530808