Ferry move disappoints minister

HD Ferries made the announcement last week

Jersey's Economic Development Minister has said he is disappointed that HD Ferries has shelved its services to Guernsey and France until next Easter.

Senator Philip Ozouf said he would welcome a new competitor to Condor to provide car and passenger ferry services to and from Jersey.

He added any successor to HD would have to commit to a year-round service.

HD blamed rising fuel costs and the economic slowdown for its announcement it was pulling out of routes last week.

After the firm pulled out of its Channel Islands service, the States said it was unlikely the company would be allowed a ramp licence again.