33 and 34. MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINEasked (1) what was the amount of mileage grant to which the Highlands of Perthshire would have been entitled had they been retained in the Highlands and Islands (Medical Service) Bill; and what increased amount will they now be given, seeing that they have been deprived of the benefits of this Bill; and (2) whether the portion of the mileage grant due to Perthshire will be deducted from the the Highlands and Islands Grant where it originally figured, or whether it will be treated as an additional burden on the £16,000 already allocated to other districts in Scotland?
Mr. BENNThe amount assigned to the part of Perthshire covered by the Special Grant-in-Aid of £10,000 is £800. In addition, this area will participate in the balance of the Grant which has not already been distributed. This scheme of distribution applies only to the present year, and in future years any mileage grant to the area in question will be made out of the mileage fund available for Great Britain generally apart from the Highlands and Islands of Scotland?
MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINEMay I ask the hon. Gentleman to reply to the last part of the second question?
Mr. BENNWhile the old arrangement continues this part of Perthshire will continue in it, but when the old arrangement terminates, Perthshire will come under the new arrangement.
MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINEAre we to understand that Perthshire has a distinct grievance, and that it will lose money?