§ 32. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland the reason for the delay in supplying electricity to the smallholdings at Auchincruive, Ayrshire; and when electricity is likely to be available.
§ Mr. T. FraserI understand that the question of an electricity supply to the smallholdings at Auchincruive, Ayrshire, has been the subject of neigotiations between the holders and the local electricity supply company. I have ascertained that the company are considering the rural electrification of Ayrshire, which would include Auchincruive and other smallholding schemes, but that in view of the immediate demands of new housing schemes they cannot at present say when a supply is likely to be available.
§ Mr. HughesIn view of the fact that these smallholdings are owned by the Department of Agriculture for Scotland, will the Minister do everything in his power to speed up the supply of electricity to these agricultural communities?
§ Mr. FraserThe holders themselves have not asked the Department to interfere as yet, so we could not have taken any steps up to now. I should imagine it would be as well to leave it to the holders to carry on their discussions with the company meantime, and if they think we can be helpful, to let us know.
§ Mr. HughesThey have asked me.