PM To Discuss Scilly Links

David Cameron has agreed to meet a delegation from the Isles of Scilly to discuss finding a solution to their transport problems.

Andrew George, MP for West Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly raised the matter during Prime Minister’s Questions.

He called upon the Prime Minister to help find a solution to the transport problems created following the closure of the helicopter service to the Isles of Scilly at the end of October.

The Government has rejected a call to subsidise a year-round sealink to the Isles of Scilly.

The islands recently lost their helicopter flights when the operator pulled out.

Transport Minister Norman Baker says the ferry link should continue to be funded by Isles of Scilly Steamship Company.

A campaign group met the Transport Minister today after yesterday's closure of the Isles of Scilly helicopter service.

Norman Baker said he was 'convinced' of the importance of maintaining good transport links between the islands and the mainland, and was 'happy' to discuss how to maintain them further.

The 'Friends of Scilly Transport' group wants 'lifeline status' for the service. They say the islands could be cut off in winter without the helicopter service.

It was the end of a chapter today for the Isles of Scilly - the last daily helicopter flight taking people to the mainland. British International Helicopters operated the world's oldest passenger service.

The company blames rising costs and falling passenger numbers.

It brings to a close nearly 50 years of helicopter travel between Penzance and the islands.

Duncan Sleightholme reports:

Watch our report from August when BIH first announced they were closing the Isles of Scilly helicopter flight.

Daily helicopter flights to the Isles of Scilly are ending today.

It brings to a close nearly 50 years of travel between Penzance and the islands. British International Helicopters blames rising costs and falling passenger numbers.

The last flight will leave Penzance heliport at 5:30 this evening.