SNP President and MEP, Ian Hudghton, who is also a representative of the European Parliament's Transport Committee has added his support for a new year-round ferry link between Scotland and Norway.

Mr Hudghton, who has supported a number of new international transport links between Scotland and the wider world, says the connection would benefit businesses, the economy, tourism, as well as helping the environment by slashing road miles.

Mr Hudghton has urged Scottish representatives to do all they can to clinch the service, which is attracting rival interest from England.

Commenting, Mr Hudghton says:

"The projected service that would link Scotland and Norway is a very exciting plan that would do much to develop business and industry links, not only with Norway, but with our Icelandic and Faroese neighbours. That is why I am also sympathetic to Shetland being included into the service.

"Not only are there vital oil and energy industry links between Scotland and Scandinavia that need to be maintained, but there are also important historical ties which could form the foundations of tourism and cultural exchange. Relying on age-old sea links between Scotland and the other North Sea nations would also assist in reducing road miles for lorry freight and thereby cutting costs and environmental impact.

"I would urge the Scottish representatives involved in the discussions with the Norwegians to do all they can to pursue this deal which would be a boon to the north."