The Steam Packet says it will be futile to ban drivers accompanying freight on Ben-my-Chree sailings.

But it says it may do so on the MV Arrow freight vessel to protect lifeline services during the coronavirus crisis.

Seatruck has stopped shipping HGV drivers and any other passengers on its Irish Sea vessels to protect crews and maintain services.

A Steam Packet spokesman said: ’There are no plans to stop freight drivers on the Ben as to do so, without also stopping passengers, would be futile. However, we may consider doing so on the MV Arrow, in order to protect lifeline freight services.’

John Quaye, chairman of Manx Independent Carriers, has written to the Steam Packet asking what its contingency plans are in the event of crew infection.

He said: ’The Packet carry many more passengers on the Ben so infection risks are higher. The idea of freight-only sailings using the MV Arrow would be a way of reducing risks but obviously we need to keep the Ben operating for passengers - but an infection would result in loss of service whilst the vessel was disinfected.’

The Steam Packet has increased cleaning regimes and has sanitisers on board for passengers and crew.

All Manx Independent Carriers’ trailers are shipped to and from the UK unaccompanied so there is no danger of cross contamination of staff.

Its drivers have been issued with a kit containing hand sanitiser, antiseptic wipes and rubber gloves as well as wipes for vehicles.