§ 41. Mr. Leslieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that ground limestone has been sent from Derbyshire to Aberdeenshire, a distance of 350 miles, while there are enormous deposits of high-grade limestone within 50 miles of Aberdeen; and why this waste of transport has been allowed when limestone is available locally?
The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr, T. Johnston)I am informed that substantial quantities of lime are being brought to the North East of Scotland from Derbyshire and the North of England for agricultural and industrial purposes. The local resources of limestone to which my hon. Friend refers cannot fully supply local needs until they have been developed with new plant. I understand, however, that negotiations are being pushed forward for the development of the main local quarry at the earliest possible date.
§ Mr. LeslieIs my right hon. Friend aware that the facts outlined in this Question were given by Dr. Ogg, an authority on soil needs, in a broadcast some time ago, and will steps be speeded up to see that local limestone is made available?
Mr. JohnstonYes, Sir. Of course, my hon. Friend will be aware that there are two purposes for which this limestone can be used. One is agricultural and the other industrial. The agricultural side of the question is being dealt with.
Mr. J. J. DavidsonDoes my right hon. Friend mean to imply that the quarries in Aberdeen are not at present fully developed to meet this demand for limestone?