HC Deb 16 February 1943 vol 386 c1573
22. Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland, in view of the exclusion of the Outer Hebrides from the scope of the schemes provided for in the Hydro-Electric Development (Scotland) Bill, what preparations are being made for the supply of cheap electric lighting and power throughout the Outer Isles, in anticipation of post-war economic development there?

Mr. Johnston

If my hon. Friend will look at the Second Schedule, he will see that the Outer Hebrides are not excluded from possible Schemes under the Bill.

Mr. MacMillan

Does that mean that the right hon. Gentleman is prepared to give an undertaking now that the provision of works for the supply of cheap, plentiful light and power will be begun as part of the earliest developments under the hydro-electric schemes?

Mr. Johnston

No, Sir; under the Bill the Highlands as a whole will have to be surveyed first, and afterwards constructional schemes will be submitted. I can give no guarantee as to which places will be selected.

Mr. MacMillan

Will the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that in these developments the Western Isles will not be left to lag for generations after the rest of the country?

Mr. Johnston

All I can say is that they are not excluded from the Bill.