The construction of two delayed and overbudget ferries has “robbed taxpayers”, Lord Robertson claimed as he criticised the Scottish Government’s handling of island issues. But before he steps aside, he has urged Scottish ministers to work with island communities to devolve the operation of local services. Lord Robertson, former general secretary of Nato, told PA: “The taxpayers are being robbed here. These will probably be the most expensive ferries in the world. It is now reduced to one shipyard that can’t apparently build two simple car ferries.” Meanwhile, he accused the Scottish Government of losing focus on island communities following significant disruption to lifeline ferry services in the summer.

Source: Express November 25, 2023 19:19 UTC