Isles MP Angus MacNeil says an urgent solution must be found to resolve the impact of inter-island flight time changes on health services.

Mr MacNeil said: “I have been contacted by concerned constituents who have drawn my attention to changes which mean that flights from Stornoway to Benbecula have moved from morning arrivals to not landing in Benbecula until 12:35 and leaving again at 17:30. This will mean a significant drop in the time available for patients’ appointments.

“NHS Western Isles who have confirmed to me, that the flight schedule changes and reductions are expected to have a significant impact on service delivery across the entire health system in the Western Isles.

“I am now asking Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, who get money from the Scottish Government to subsidise the service, for clarification on timetables as these changes will have a negative impact on health services.

“This is not a good enough service for the people of Uist and a solution must be found as soon as possible.”