§ 38. Miss Herbisonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the extent of the gypsy problem; and what advice he has given to local authorities on the provision of facilities for them.
§ Dr. Dickson MabonThe most recent estimate made puts the number of travelling people in Scotland at around 2,000. My right hon. Friend proposes to arrange for a survey to be made in the early spring of next year which should give a more accurate assessment of the numbers and more clearly identify the problems which the travellers face. In the meantime my right hon. Friend will give local authorities any necessary advice relating to this winter.
§ Miss HerbisonIs my hon. Friend aware that there is much distress at present? I know that the Government are doing everything that they possibly can, but I should like to know whether local authorities, for this winter at least, could leave these people alone instead of hounding them from place to place and making their lives a veritable misery.
§ Dr. MabonI agree with my right hon. Friend that this is a matter of some urgency. My hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State had two meetings with representatives of the travellers. I answered a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Coatbridge and Airdrie 1529 (Mr. Dempsey) as recently as 29th November saying that we are seeking to alleviate the present difficulties in cooperation with the local authorities concerned. I emphasise that again. We are doing our best.