§ 44. Mr. MACQUISTENasked the Secretary of State for Scotland why the Board of Agriculture, who have settled smallholders at Strontian, have not erected a pier in order that steamers may call and the farmers have an opportunity of shipping their stock and produce and receiving their supplies at a reasonable figure; whether he is aware that the nearest pier is at Lochaline, a distance of 24 miles, which makes it impracticable for the population of Strontian, which numbers 500, to reach the markets; and whether he will take steps to cause the Board of Agriculture to erect a suitable pier?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI am informed that the cost of erecting a pier at Strontian would involve an expenditure out of all proportion to any benefits which might accrue to the smallholders in the vicinity, and I do not propose to sanction such an expenditure. I understand that sales are held regularly at Strontian at which the holders' stock can be sold.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENIs my right hon. Friend not aware that a boat calls there only once a fortnight, that there is no shelter for them to lodge, and that to settle a number of smallholders on an estate there without giving them a pier or other exit for goods is about as wise as to put up houses without doors and to tell the people to climb out of the windows?
§ Sir J. GILMOURAs I pointed out, facilities are afforded to sell the stock on the spot, and if proper advantage is taken of that they do not require what is demanded.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENIs it not the case that the price received is nominal, because those who take away the stock have to pay such an immense sum for transport to a place 24 miles away?