The Island's MP has called on the Government to "right a wrong" and end sixty years of hurt by giving the Isle of Wight its Island Deal
Speaking at Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) this afternoon (Wednesday), Bob Seely asked Boris Johnson for an update on the long-promised pot of cash.
A written question asked:
"What recent progress he has made on bringing forward proposals for an island deal for the Isle of Wight; and if he will make a statement?"
In response, PM Boris Johnson said:
"I thank my honourable friend who is an excellent champion for the Isle of Wight. There is ongoing discussion between the Isle of Wight and the Department for Levelling Up about the unique circumstances for the Island and about the discussion about the possibility of a county deal."
Mr Seely called on Mr Johnson to "right a wrong" - and look at the findings of an independent study. He said:
"I thank the Prime Minister for his response. Will the Government accept the findings of the independent study that it itself commissioned this summer and in doing so will he help me to right a wrong that has been ongoing now for the Island for my constituents for some six decades."
Mr Johnson replied, saying:
"I thank my honourable friend very much. He will understand its not easy to break down the costs that apply to the service delivery on the Island but I know the department is carefully considering the details of the study that he mentions and I'm sure the relevant minister will keep him updated."
As previously reported by Isle of Wight Radio, the Island was given £50,000 for an independent study earlier this year.
The aim was to look at the unique challenges the Isle of Wight faces as an Island.
It's hoped the money from an Island Deal would go towards bridging the gap.
Speaking afterwards, Mr Seely said:
“Today I reminded the Prime Minister of the need for a better deal for the Isle of Wight as part of my ongoing campaign. I am pleased that the Prime Minister acknowledges our unique circumstances, and I will continue my talks with the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities about the findings of the study commissioned by the Government.
“The Prime Minister knows, because I have told him, this deal is important to the Island.
“I am pleased to say that in many areas we are already getting a better deal. We have already secured millions for our railway, we have capital investment in our hospital, and we have money to secure jobs and upgrade the public realm in East Cowes, but there is always more to do.
“We need a better deal for our public services which includes both our council and our uniquely small hospital. The recognition of our unique circumstances needs to be backed up with financial investment."
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