HC Deb 22 March 1955 vol 538 c1855
28. Mr. Willis

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether steps have now been taken to explore the magnetite deposits in the island of Tiree; and with what results.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

I understand that the deposits have been investigated by a commercial firm, which decided not to develop them.

Mr. Willis

In view of the very extensive nature of these deposits—they are about 4 miles in length and stretch to a considerable depth—will the hon. Gentleman not try to pursue the matter further through the Scottish Council?

Mr. Stewart

The hon. Member was a member of the Mineral Development Committee. Its Report did bring out the fact that there were great difficulties here, and I gather that it is because of those difficulties—for example, the high percentage of phosphorus—that this firm did not feel it possible to do anything.

Mr. Willis

Will the Minister try, through the research department in Glasgow, to get something done about this particular difficulty?