§ 18. Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many applications he has now had from local authorities wishing to take advantage of the scheme whereby the Government have allocated £1 million for urban renovation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. YoungerA total of 15 applications for grant have been received from local authorities, of which one has already been approved. The total grant represented by these applications is £194,200.
§ Mr. DalyellDoes all the money look like being taken up?
§ Mr. YoungerSince this scheme was first announced only on 7th February, and in view of the fact that we have already made progress, I am certain that local authorities will come forward and take up the full allocation of £1 million.
§ Mr. DouglasAre the local authorities working on urban renewal in association with such bodies as the Scottish Civic Trust?
§ Mr. YoungerThe Scottish Civic Trust has many links with local authorities, but this particular scheme involves small environmental improvement work with a particular bent towards improving the attractions for incoming industry. Although the Civic Trust might be consulted on a particular matter, I would not regard this scheme as a matter in which that body would necessarily be involved.