To ask the Scottish Executive whether the MV Pioneer was disposed of in accordance with the guidelines on the disposal of surplus assets, as set out in the Scottish Public Finance Manual, and, if so, whether it was sold for the best possible price. The disposal of the MV Pioneer by Caledonian MacBrayne Ltd was carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Scottish Public Finance Manual, which states that “holdings of assets should be kept under constant review with a view to disposing of surplus assets as quickly as possible” and “the best possible price should be obtained for surplus assets.