§ 41. Mr. RAMSAYasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will give the latest available costs incurred in the acquisition and development of the estate of Lushentyre for smallholdings; the cost likely to be incurred in the development of the estate by the Government; and the date when the settlement is likely to become effective?
Mr. W. ADAMSONThe costs of acquisition have yet to be determined in accordance with the provisions of the Acquisition of Land (Assessment of Compensation) Act, 1919. The costs incurred to date in connection with the development of the property (including the purchase of sheep stock) amount to approximately £2,600; the total cost of development, exclusive of acquisition but including the equipment of the new holdings is estimated at £8,650. During the development period some of the prospective new holders have been and will be given temporary lets for grazing and small cultivations and are being employed by the Department on development works; they are also being given facilities for the erection of dwelling-houses and steading buildings, and will be given effective occupation of their holdings at the earliest possible date.