§ 12. Mr. Douglas Hendersonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is now able to make a statement on additional financial assistance to local authorities in areas affected by oil developments.
§ Mr. MillanThe appropriate provision will be included in the Local Government (Scotland) Bill to be published shortly.
§ Mr. HendersonDoes the Minister accept that there will be widespread pleasure in Scotland at his announcement that oil development areas will receive special assistance? Is he aware, however, that there is concern, following the comments by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in the Budget statement, about restrictions on local authorities? Will he take the earliest opportunity to reassure all local authorities that help will be coming shortly in a concrete form?
§ Mr. MillanYes, I can certainly give the assurance that the Bill will include appropriate provision.
§ Mr. GrayWill the Minister bear in mind that authorities affected by oil developments require assistance on general housing needs and similar matters, and also desperately need help to provide recreational facilities for the thousands of people who are coming into those areas?
§ Mr. MillanAll these considerations are already being borne in mind by the various Departments in the Scottish Office.