P&O faces court move by Brittany
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.BRITTANY Ferries is preparing to take P&O European Ferries to the European Court, claiming that P&O's proposed service from Portsmouth to Bilbao from 28 April is being illegally subsidised by the Basque government, writes Frank Barrett.
Graeme Dunlop, managing director of P&O European Ferries, denied that the service was receiving any subsidy from Spain.
But speaking at the launch of the new service, Mr Dunlop did not deny that the Basque government had agreed it would buy up to pounds 5m worth of tickets over three years if the new service failed to break even. According to the contract published in Spain, these tickets would be distributed among 'low income' groups.
Ian Carruthers, managing director of Brittany Ferries, said the scheme was unfair competition.
Brittany Ferries has complained to the European Commission, which it says is still investigating the matter.
Mr Dunlop said P&O had discussed its plans with the Commission and there had been no objection. 'We weren't happy when Brittany Ferries began its service to Caen - but we just got on with it,' he said.
P&O is chartering a 37,000-ton ferry from Viking Line, the biggest ever used out of the UK, to operate a twice-weekly service from Portsmouth to Bilbao. It promised fares 'competitive' with Brittany Ferries' tariffs on its Plymouth to Santander route.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments