Full Breakdown
SNP’s Direct-Award Promise to Ferguson Marine Declared Illegal
By Drooid · · How we work
SNP Promise to Rescue Ferguson Marine
Two months before the Holyrood election, Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes announced that the Scottish Government would directly award a contract to Ferguson Marine in Port Glasgow to build four vessels—two ferries, a research boat and a fisheries-protection vessel. The announcement framed the contract as a lifeline for the shipyard, emphasizing its role in “skilled employment and industrial capability” in Inverclyde.
Legal Hurdles and Transport Scotland Admission
When questioned by MSPs, Alison Irvine, chief executive of Transport Scotland, acknowledged that the proposed direct award “as it stands” breaches the Subsidy Control Act 2022 and therefore cannot be finalised. Irvine said the government must adjust the Competitions and Markets Authority (CMA)-related rules and restructure CMAL’s organisational framework before the contract can become lawful. She projected that a legal solution could be reached within six months.
Political Fallout and Opposition Criticism
The admission triggered criticism from opposition figures. Graham Simpson, Reform UK Scotland’s transport spokesman, called Irvine’s statement a “damning admission” and questioned why ministers announced the award before confirming its legality. Stephen Flynn, SNP leader, has been left to field the backlash, acknowledging that the promised contracts remain “hot air” until the legal obstacles are resolved.
Implications for Inverclyde and Ferry Services
The delay means island communities awaiting new ferries face further postponement, and the future of Ferguson Marine’s workforce remains uncertain. Until the government clarifies the required regulatory changes and secures a legally binding contract, the shipyard’s revival and the delivery of the four vessels remain pending.