To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he intends to announce the composition of the new board of Caledonian MacBrayne Limited; what representations he has received regarding the delay in making the announcement; and if he will make a statement.

I refer to the answer which my right hon. and learned Friend gave to the hon. Member for Glasgow, Garscadden (Mr. Dewar) on 27 October 1989 (Hansard Vol. 158 Col. 456). No representations have been received suggesting that there has been unreasonable delay in making an announcement. It is important that the widest possible range of experience, expertise and local knowledge is reflected in the board's membership.