§ 20. Mr. James Davidsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what are the Government's proposals in regard to construction of the proposed road across Glenfeshie Forest to Link Deeside and Speyside; and if he will make a statement.
§ Dr. MabonOur view is that this project is worthy of further examination along with several other proposals for new roads in the Highlands and Islands. The Highlands and Islands Development Board is now doing this, and my right hon. Friend looks forward to having its views.
§ Mr. DavidsonIs the hon. Gentleman aware that this road would be a tremendous asset to the tourist industry in particular, and also to the forestry industry, which are the only two industries in North-East Scotland which are now capable of mopping up the shake-out caused by the Selective Employment Tax and the other redundancies due to the credit squeeze in the area?
§ Dr. MabonI am aware of the road's importance, and I met the county councils about it in, I think, 1965. The matter has been discussed for some time, and I understand that on 18th October both the county councils involved met the Highlands and Islands Development Board to discuss not only the road and its importance but its priority in relation to other new roads.