HC Deb 02 March 1926 vol 192 cc1214-5
26. Mr. KIRKWOOD

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that the public right of way at Kenmure Wood, on the banks of the Clyde, at Carmyle, is being obstructed and destroyed by the operations of Kenmure colliery; and if he will make inquiries into the matter with a view to the preservation of the public interest in the right of way?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I have no information as to the matter referred to in the question, nor have I jurisdiction in questions of rights of way. Local authorities (in this case probably the District Com- mittee) are charged by Statute with the protection of rights of way, and the hon. Member may think it desirable to bring this case to the notice of the District Committee.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that, not a mile away from this spot, there has been a beauty spot on the Clyde covered up, and it was covered up during the War, when our minds were occupied with things abroad and not at home, and that this is an attempt to cover up another beauty spot—Kenmure Wood? I am giving you this as evidence that the district committee you refer to take no interest in it. I want to know if the right hon. Gentleman will use his influence with that district, in order that this vandalism may be stopped at once.

Mr. SPEAKER

Order!

Mr. LANSBURY

Is it not possible for the right hon. Gentleman to cause inquiries to be made and see if some pressure cannot be brought to bear on the local authority to see that this does not happen? Surely it is the duty of some one to take care of rights of way?

Sir J. GILMOUR

As I have explained, I have no jurisdiction in the matter. If the attention of the local authorities is called by those interested, I have no doubt action will be taken.

Mr. LANSBURY

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware of the fact that in England, when a local authority defaults in its duty, the Minister of Health takes the matter up? All we are asking is that the right hon. Gentleman should make some inquiries into this and see if he cannot find a way of bringing some pressure on the local authority if he finds it necessary to do so.

Sir J. GILMOUR

I should, of course, be quite willing to confer with the hon. Member who raised the question, but it must not be taken that I admit any liability.

Mr. DENNIS HERBERT

Will the right hon. Gentleman depute the hon. Member for Bow and Bromley (Mr. Lansbury) to inquire into the matter for him?