HC Deb 15 November 1949 vol 469 cc1829-30
3. Mr. McKie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will take steps to expedite the payment of land drainage grants by the Department of Agriculture for Scotland.

Mr. Woodburn

I am not aware of any general delay in the payment of land drainage grants; but if the hon. Member has some particular case in mind, I will be glad to look into it.

Mr. McKie

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there have been cases where more than a year has elapsed before payment has been made, and that in the interval the proprietors concerned have been embarrassed by having to bear the whole cost themselves?

Mr. Woodburn

Of course, where a delay of that kind takes place there is probably a reason for it, but I will look into any question the hon. Member raises.

6. Mr. Malcolm MacPherson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he expects to receive the report of the Committee on Land Drainage, under the chairmanship of Dr. Duncan.

Mr. Woodburn

I expect to receive this report very soon.

Mr. MacPherson

Can my right hon. Friend say if the report, when published, will be available in the Vote Office?

Mr. Woodburn

That is another question.