HC Deb 27 January 1959 vol 598 c875
35. Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, in view of the value of the proposed Tolsta-Ness road in the Isle of Lewis to the development of tourism, agriculture and the local transport system, and in the provision of employment, he will now offer assistance towards the cost of its construction to Ross and Cromarty County Council.

Mr. N. Macpherson

My right hon. Friend will of course consider very carefully any proposal that the county council may make to him about this road, but in view of the many competing claims on the limited funds available he cannot say when he could offer grant.

Mr. MacMillan

In view of the fact that the Distribution of Industries Act has so far had no impact whatsoever upon the unemployment in this area—the heaviest in any part of Great Britain—and that no major scheme under his Department is now being carried out there to solve that problem of unemployment, will the hon. Gentleman consider this application which is coming very soon from the county council as a matter of immediate urgency?

Mr. Macpherson

The application will certainly be considered. There will be no delay in the consideration of it, but I cannot give any promise as to when the grant can be offered.