Andrew Turner, the Island’s MP, today announced the launch of an on-line survey into cross-Solent ferry services. The results will be used in a ‘final push’ to persuade the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to recommend that the services should be investigated by the Competition Commission.

The OFT announced last month that they would consult until 12th August on their provisional decision not to make a referral to the Competition Commission following a long-running campaign by Mr Turner which was supported by all local political parties and over 8,000 individuals. One of the reasons the OFT gave for their decision was ‘limited evidence of consumer detriment’. The on-line survey, which closes at midnight on August 8, is designed to provide evidence of how ferry fares and services affect users on the Island and elsewhere. Mr Turner is keen for as many people as possible to complete the survey, even if they have previously given evidence to the OFT. There is also a prize draw of £100 in Amazon or Argos vouchers open to all who complete the survey*.

Mr Turner said:
“The previous campaign was about gathering evidence and it certainly brought in a great deal of very useful information. However, it is difficult to present such a lot of detailed information in a format that shows what ferry users think is most important. I want as many people as possible to complete the on-line survey so that we can present the evidence to the OFT in a different way.

“I will be sending e-mails to people who have registered an interest in the ferries with a link to the campaign and inviting them to pass it on to anyone who might be interested. If you would like to help with increasing the numbers of people who complete the survey please send an e-mail to my office at mail@islandmp.org asking for the link – or the survey can be completed on my website at www.islandmp.org.

“This is a final push to try to persuade the OFT to recommend a full investigation by the Competition Commission. The cross-Solent ferries have not been properly looked at since 1991 and they have never been investigated under current legislation. This is everyone’s chance to help bring about a proper investigation to ensure that the ferry services are working for the benefit of the Island and Islanders.”
*The random draw will take place after the survey’s closing date of midnight, August 8, and will involve all those people who have indicated they wanted to take part. The winner will be notified by e-mail and the results published on Mr Turner’s website. There is no cash alternative to the draw.


END Contact : Andrew Turner’s office 01983 530808