§ 7. Mr. MacCormickasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will ensure that where new roads are built they are fenced with stock-proof fences.
§ Mr. MillanHighway authorities are under no obligation to fence against livestock on land adjoining the highway, but roadside fences are generally provided on motorways—from which animals are excluded—to replace previously existing fences where improvements are 406 being carried out and at special places such as bridge parapets and on top of embankments
§ Mr. MacCormickUnder current conditions, when the road is improved the traffic will be moving much faster. In those circumstances cannot a fresh look be taken at the whole question?
§ Mr. MillanThat is a fair point. We must remember that if we fenced every road it would be an expensive proposition. However, we are asking for information from county councils about the extent to which they have unfenced roads in their areas and we shall consider the problem in the light of that information
§ Mr. GrayWill the Minister pay particular attention to the rights of crofters when a new road is being constructed where no road existed before? Will he bear in mind the reasonable demands of the crofters that the fencing should be taken care of when the road is built?
Mr. MilianI shall bear that in mind. There is nothing to prevent highway authorities providing fencing, but also there is no obligation upon them to do so.