§ 24. Mr. Malcolm MacMillanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress has been made with the extension of the crofts at Balmartin, Isle of North Uist; and what financial and other assistance is being offered to enable the crofters to proceed in good time with their spring sowing.
§ Mr. MaclayThe crofters will shortly be asked to vote whether they are in favour of the reorganisation scheme or not.
If the scheme is agreed to by the crofters and confirmed by me it will be open to the crofters to apply to the Crofters Commission for cropping and other assistance available under the Crofters Agricultural Grants Scheme.
§ Mr. MacMillanI appreciate everything that is being done by the Crofters Commission—and the Department nowadays. Nevertheless, have not these people waited for the last six years to see an extension of their holdings, so that 179 they can get a reasonable livelihood from agriculture in their own island? Will the right hon. Gentleman give every possible assistance to them that can be provided under the Statutes, and give it as soon as possible so as to enable them to sow their crops in the spring?
§ Mr. MaclayI have already answered the Question in that sense.