§ 37. Mr. Brooman-Whiteasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many new industrial enterprises have been 1599 established in the Highland Development Area in the last three years; and what alteration of policy or readjustment of Departmental responsibilities it is proposed to make to improve this position.
§ Mr. Henderson StewartAs regards the first part of the Question, I have nothing to add to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade on 14th December. It is the Government's policy to encourage the development of suitable industrial projects in the Highland Development Area. My right hon. Friend is in the closest touch with the President of the Board of Trade about this, but I should emphasise that much must depend on the willingness of industrialists to establish themselves there.
§ Mr. Brooman-WhiteDoes my hon. Friend not agree that the main object of this operation is to support the population and prosperity which is necessary for healthy agriculture in the Highlands? As there has been virtually no development, might not more responsibility be given to agricultural authorities rather than to the Board of Trade, which is, not unnaturally, preoccupied with other priorities?
§ Mr. NabarroScrap the hydro-electric scheme.
§ Mr. Brooman-WhiteI beg to give notice that I shall seek an opportunity to raise this matter on the Adjournment.