§ 10. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will state the material direct and indirect loss to trade, industry and employment 1122 in the north of Scotland caused by the forest fire there in June, 1960; and which trades and industries were affected.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Niall Macpherson)Although much valuable timber was destroyed in the recent forest fire, which affected estates at Glenmore, Rothiemurchus and Pityoulish, it is likely that the net loss, direct or indirect, to trade or industry in the north of Scotland will be slight. I understand that no unemployment has been caused by the fire.
§ Mr. HughesIs not the long duration of this great fire, its extent and the great consequent loss a measure of the failure of the Secretary of State's Department to deal with a disaster of this kind? Is the hon. Gentleman aware that disasters of this kind have occurred before and this should have been foreseen and provided against? Will he take steps to see that that is done in future?
§ Mr. MacphersonIf the hon. and learned Member has ever seen a forest fire he will know how very difficult it is to deal with. The Forestry Commission has developed comprehensive fire fighting arrangements in co-operation with the local authority fire services. I am assured that in the fire, which started on 3rd June and was not put out until 11th June, most admirable work was done by the fire brigade, and I should like to congratulate all those who took part in dealing with the emergency.