20. M.M.MacMillanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what practical steps are being taken in the Western Isles of Scotland at the present time to provide wholesome water supplies in the villages 1864 in place of many of the present dangerous and polluted supplies, and in which districts?
§ Mr. ElliotI am aware that the water supplies at a number of places in the Western Islands are unsatisfactory in various respects. The County Council of Inverness have recently decided to institute an engineering survey into water supplies and resources in North Uist and will consider later whether similar surveys should be made in other islands in the county. Improvements to water supplies are at present being undertaken, I understand, at Leverburgh and Scalpay in Harris.
Mr. MacMillanIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is not a question for consideration in the future, but is a matter of urgency, because there is a danger to the health of the people? There are several examples, such as Eriskay, which he might investigate as a matter of urgency now.
§ Mr. ElliotAs I say, the county council are investigating.