§ 64. Mr. Gallacherasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that the residents of Milton of Balgonie are still paying drainage rate; and has he any information as to when the Fife County Council intends to proceed with the River Leven drainage scheme?
§ Mr. ElliotI am aware that Fife County Council have imposed a drainage rate for the current financial year on Milton of Balgonie. With regard to the second part of the question, I am informed that the county council have not yet succeeded in reaching agreement with all the parties concerned but negotiations are actively proceeding. Meantime, I understand that the county council's engineers are engaged in the necessary surveys.
§ Mr. GallacherIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the inhabitants of Milton have no objection to paying the rate once the scheme is started, but that this scheme has been discussed for 20 years, and if it is discussed for another 20 years, will they have to go on paying the rate?
§ Mr. ElliotI have indicated that that is a matter within the competence of the county council.