Funding for new ferry promised at 'crisis' meeting

Funding has been earmarked for another new large ferry to serve the Western Isles, Scotland's transport secretary has told islanders.

Fiona Hyslop said money was allocated in the budget to replace the ageing MV Lord of the Isles, which serves South Uist, within "about three years".

Hyslop made the pledge at a "crisis summit" called by an island business group which claims economic development is being stifled by ferries disruption.

South Uist has been particularly badly hit by a shortage of vessels on CalMac routes, and is currently served by a ship restricted to just 45 passengers.

West coast ferry services have been under intense pressure as the state-owned ferry operator awaits the arrival of replacement vessels for its ageing fleet.