§ 31. Mr. N. Macphersonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has yet considered the Duncan Report on Land Drainage, presented in 1950; and what action he proposes to take.
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. James Stuart)The Duncan Report has been fully considered, but the arrangements for carrying out land drainage work in Scotland present considerable financial and other difficulties. The position is being discussed with the local authority associations.
§ Mr. MacphersonCan my right hon. Friend give some assurance that before long something is really going to be done about this matter? While I welcome the fact that he is taking active steps at the moment, may I ask my right hon. Friend if he can give the House any hope of those steps coming to fruition shortly?
§ Mr. StuartDiscussions with the local authorities' associations have begun. It would require legislation, and I cannot guarantee immediate legislation.
§ Mr. ManuelIs the Secretary of State aware that we have many important drainage schemes in Scotland outstanding, waiting on the adoption of this Report? Would he give some assurance to Scottish Members that the Report will have enough teeth in it to enforce drainage where land logs are presently impeding land drainage?
§ Mr. StuartI am fully aware of the importance of the subject, and I hope the discussions will be proceeded with as rapidly as possible.
§ Mr. John MacLeodIs my right hon. Friend working along the lines of a really comprehensive scheme on a county basis?
§ Mr. StuartI am simply looking along the lines of a comprehensive scheme.