HC Deb 17 March 1971 vol 813 cc1407-8
26. Lieut.-Colonel Colin Mitchell

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is satisfied that the needs of the economic and social welfare of the northeast of Scotland are adequately provided for in the existing organisation of his Department; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Gordon Campbell

Yes. The organisation of my Department is kept under continuous review and adjusted as necessary.

Lieut.-Colonel Mitchell

Would my right hon. Friend not agree that there is a danger of the administrative priorities in Scotland being dominated by the social and economic needs of the central Lowlands at the expense of the North-East and the other peripheral areas?

Mr. Campbell

This is a danger against which I would myself make a special effort to safeguard us. I do not at the moment think that that danger is before us.

Mr. Robert Hughes

Is the Secretary of State aware that there is widespread concern in North-East Scotland that the River Don, a valuable tourist and social asset, may be denuded of salmon by the action of an industrial concern in blocking the fish passes? Will he use his powers in relation to the Don Fisheries Board, which seems somewhat ineffectual in protecting this river?

Mr. Campbell

That is a particular question which I should not answer without notice, but I shall be pleased if the hon. Member will write to me about it.