HC Deb 15 May 1968 vol 764 cc1222-3
51. Mr. Eadie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what sums he estimates will be paid to horticulturists in Midlothian as a consequence of storm damage.

Mr. Buchan

About £1,100.

Mr. Eadie

I thank my hon. Friend for that Answer. Is he aware that there is still some anxiety in Midlothian about damage? I think he will recollect that I wrote to him about it. Can he do something to disabuse people's minds about the way in which these payments can be expedited?

Mr. Buchan

As I recall the exchange of correspondence, the constituent involved has received a satisfactory answer. We give up to 38⅓ per cent. in grant towards the cost of the damage. Only one case has not been met and that is where only minor damage was involved.

Mr. Stodart

As the hon. Gentleman refers to "what will be paid", does he mean what has been paid, because the storm took place in January and it is very disturbing to think that there are any claims still unpaid under the horticultural improvements scheme?

Mr. Buchan

This depends on how quickly people applied. We have tried to use every measure to ensure that people apply timeously. We believe that there are still some applications to come in, but those which have been received have been met timeously.