The Department for Transport has announced the appointment of prominent UK maritime figure and former Chief Executive of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Brian Johnson CBE, as the independent chair of the newly formed Cross-Solent Transport Group.
It marks the first time the Government has directly appointed someone to oversee improvements to the Isle of Wight’s ferry services.
Brian Johnson brings a wealth of expertise to the role, having served as Chief Executive of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency from 2018 to 2022. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in overseeing maritime regulation and ensuring the highest standards of safety and compliance across the sector. He is a BAE Systems executive and has been involved in both the Solent Freeport and Maritime UK.
The creation of the Cross-Solent Transport Group follows the Government’s recognition of longstanding concerns over the pricing and frequency of cross-Solent ferries. In January 2025, the Prime Minister stated during PMQs that ferry services to and from the Isle of Wight “simply have not been good enough”.
Richard Quigley MP has welcomed the appointment, made by Maritime Minister Keir Mather MP, as a clear sign that the Government is taking the issue seriously after years of inaction.
Richard has said:
“After tireless efforts to engage with the government and the Department for Transport, this feels like a major step forward. We cannot afford to be complacent, but appointing Brian, someone with a proven and successful track record in maritime regulation, shows that the government is listening to the island’s concerns.
“I look forward to working with Brian and the wider group to ensure our community’s voice is heard and that we finally secure the improvements we need.”
Joe Robertson MP has said:
“It has taken 9 long months for the Government to appoint a Chair of the Cross Solent Group for ferries.
“I look forward to finally moving forward with detailed discussions based on facts: namely, that ferries have got more expensive, less frequent, and less reliable.
“I am pleased that the Government remains involved. This is the opportunity for the ferry companies to do the right thing by Islanders and visitors alike. If they refuse, then the Government must force their hand by creating regulations”.
