§ 31. Mr. Monroasked the Secretary of State for Scotland on how many reservoirs owned by water undertakings in Scotland boating is now allowed; and how many have rules or bye-laws.
§ Mr. RossBoating is allowed on two reservoirs and fishing from boats on 85. No bye-laws have yet been made under Section 63 of the Countryside (Scotland) Act, 1967.
§ Mr. MonroDoes the Secretary of State agree that this is a disappointing amount for boating and for tourism and recreation? What positive efforts have the Countryside Commission and the Government made to encourage water 1340 authorities to increase the available facilities?
§ Mr. RossThe record is not as bad as all that, remembering that the bulk of the population of Scotland is pretty near other forms of water. For the hon. Gentleman's satisfaction I have drawn the board's attention to its powers under the Countryside Act to permit the use of land and water in which it has an interest for any form of recreation. It will shortly have discussions with the Countryside Commission for Scotland about this matter.
§ Mr. MaclennanDoes my right hon. Friend accept that the public ownership of waters in Scotland is widely regarded as vital for the provision of recreational facilities and that the proposed sale by the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board of the River Shin fishing in my constituency has caused widespread dismay and anger throughout the Highlands? Will he, therefore, intervene to stop the sale going through?
§ Mr. RossI think that my hon. Friend ought to see what powers I have in respect of many of the matters that he asks me to do. However, this matter is not covered by this Question.