§ 64. Mr. Malcolm MacMillanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will make a statement regarding the proposed causeway at Bernera Island, Isle of Lewis?
§ Mr. ColvilleFollowing an application by the county council, the Department of Agriculture for Scotland offered a grant in aid of the construction of boatslips on either side of Bernera Sound. The county council subsequently indicated that they desired to consider the construction of a causeway across the Sound; and while, so far as I am aware, they have not formally adopted this suggestion, the matter is now the subject of correspondence and discussion.
§ Mr. MacMillanIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this matter has been a subject of correspondence and discussion for a great number of years, and that in the meantime people are being inconvenienced? Will he not urge that some more definite action than mere discussion shall be taken; and will he not initiate that action himself?
§ Mr. ColvilleI am looking into the matter personally, but the hon. Member will realise that the Department offered to make a grant for a certain purpose, and that the county council expressed the view that they would like it done in another way.
§ Mr. MacMillanWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that, after making special inquiries, I have myself 1500 had a unanimous request from the district for a causeway and not for slips?
§ Mr. ColvilleI will bear that point in mind; but, of course, the hon. Member must realise the position of the local authorities.