§ 21. Mr. Patrick Maitlandasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received about increased flooding of the River Clyde in recent years; and what measures he is prepared to take to protect agricultural land affected by it.
§ Mr. J. StuartI have received no representations in recent years about increased flooding on the River Clyde. I am, however, concerned about the land drainage problems presented by periodic flooding in the Hamilton-Motherwell areas and in other parts of Scotland, and I am discussing with the interests concerned the lines of possible amending legislation to enable such problems to be dealt with.
§ Mr. MaitlandWill my right hon. Friend consider instituting a survey to establish the facts about flooding in the Clyde, particularly as valuable horticultural land has been subject to inundation in recent years and caused the loss of money and the waste of good food-producing possibilities?
§ Mr. StuartI will certainly consider it. A preliminary survey is being carried out, but not a full survey.
§ Mr. N. MacphersonAs these discussions have been going on for a long time now, can my right hon. Friend say what is holding them up?
§ Mr. StuartThey are very complicated matters, and it will require legislation to implement the decisions.