The Clyde Steamers
Snt,—The article by Professor Brogan on the threatened stoppage of steamer sailings on the Clyde deals with a matter that requires wide publicity. Unfortunately Professor Brogan emphasises particularly the effect that the stoppage would have upon potential trippers and holiday- makers ; whereas the really serious aspect is the effect upon the residents of the many coastal villages. For them thedaily steamer is the only link with towns such as Glasgow, Greenock and Helensburgh. . Perhaps Professor Brogan would write again, pointing out, for the benefit of those who do not know the district that there are no railways in Cowal and Kintyre ; that to reach them by road via "Rest and be Thankful" is a very long and arduous journey ; and that Bute and Arran, being islands, have neithel. rail, nor road connections.
The quiet civilisation of the little coastal towns is utterly dependent on the steamers for mails, fresh food, and in many cases daily journeys to business. It is not sufficient to deplore the tourist's loss of the benefits of a trip "doon the watter " ; attention must be given also to the plight of the thousands whose livelihood depends upon the tourist traffic, and who look to the steamers for the ordinary amenities of life. The pr3posed cut in the services means ruin to many, and at least acute hardship to many more. It seems likely that more thought would have been given to this proposal if the Scottish Office had some control over
Scottish transport.—Yours, &c., ERIC K. ADAM. 67 Goldington Avenue, Bedford.
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