§ 35. Mr. Grimondasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many experimental crofts are being run with the assistance of the Department of Agriculture; where they are situated; and what further steps he proposes to give technical assistance and practical demonstrations of new methods to crofters.
§ Mr. J. StuartI assume that the hon. Member is referring to demonstration crofts, of which there are six functioning at present. Three are situated in Skye, two in Sutherland and one in South Uist. The crofts are being operated by selected crofters under the guidance of the North of Scotland College of Agriculture and from funds provided by the Department of Agriculture for Scotland. I hope that during the next financial year it may be possible to establish in addition a pig and poultry demonstration unit and to strengthen the advisory staffs of the North of Scotland and West of Scotland agricultural colleges in the crofting areas.
§ Mr. GrimondWould the Secretary of State see whether he can establish such a croft in the Shetlands? Will he bear in mind that if these crofts are run under true crofting conditions they are extremely valuable for the improvement of crofting throughout the Islands?
§ Mr. StuartI should be glad to see one established in the Shetlands. It might be useful, and I will certainly bear the suggestion in mind when we can go further in this matter.