§ 2. Mr. Russell Johnstonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what proposals he is considering for the drainage of the land bordering the River Spey.
§ The Minister of State, Scottish Office (Mr. George Willis)None, Sir. The initiation of arterial drainage proposals lies with the owners of the land concerned. No such proposals for the Spey Valley have been put forward.
§ Mr. JohnstonIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the land bordering the Spey represents a tremendous opportunity for land reclamation? Could he indicate whether the drainage of such land will be something which the Highland Development Board will definitely consider?
§ Mr. WillisI know the area quite well, and I agree with what the hon. Gentleman says. This is a matter for the Board itself. It will be given the power to do this kind of work, or to consider these schemes and to make proposals.