§ 11. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what was the purpose of the recent inquiry relating to the acquisition of land near West Kilbride; and what opportunity was given to objectors to state their case.
§ Mr. N. MacphersonI assume that the hon. Member is referring to the public inquiry held at Largs into the application by the South of Scotland Electricity Board for my right hon. Friend's consent to the erection of a nuclear power station at Hunterston. Notice was given in the Press and otherwise that objections could be sent to him, and objectors were given the opportunity to state their case at the public inquiry.
§ Mr. HughesDoes not the Minister agree that there is an extraordinary contrast between the way in which the wealthy property owners of West Kilbride were treated and the way in which the crofters of South Uist were treated? Will he state why this inquiry was advertised in the local Press for the benefit of the Tory proprietors of West Kilbride, whereas no opportunity was given 948 in the local Press to the crofters to state their case?
§ Mr. MacphersonSince the hon. Member for Western Isles (Mr. Malcolm MacMillan) has given notice that this matter is to be raised on the Adjournment, I am not certain that it would be appropriate for me to deal with the second part of the question.