However, Paul Luxon, Condor Ferries' CEO, rebutted the allegations: "No sale process is taking place for Condor as a company, nor for that matter, Condor Liberation. Any private business can, of course, be bought or sold, but as far as we are concerned, there are no current plans for any change of ownership."

Mr Luxon stated Condor was meeting its two critical strategic objectives - providing a safe, compliant and sustainable lifeline ferry service for both freight and passengers; and delivering a reliable, year round freight service - but there was still some room for improvement in communication, minimising disruption, reliability, port facilities and offering day-trip options.

"Our focus is working intelligently to implement the improvement plan as detailed in that report," explained Mr Luxon. "Our shareholders are fully engaged with everything that we are doing in relation to this. Furthermore, they are very supportive of our aim to continue to deliver reliable and enjoyable sea connectivity between the communities we serve through our freight, lifeline and tourism services."

Deputy Ferbrache said he was "satisfied" with Condor's answer, adding that, "...regardless of who is behind the company, we are trying to make a deal and work with them. We are still trying to come up with a plan that will satisfy everyone."