HC Deb 27 January 1982 vol 16 cc880-1
10. Mr. Home Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what financial assistance is available from his Department for the provision or improvement of community facilities in rural areas.

Mr. Alexander Fletcher

Capital grants are given by my Department to local voluntary youth and community organisations in both rural and urban areas to assist them in providing or improving such facilities. Grants made in 1980–81 totalled £800, 000. I refer the hon. Gentleman to the reply on 21 January by my right hon. Friend to my hon. Friend the Member for Dumfries (Sir H. Morro).

Mr. Home Robertson

It has been written: Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons". Is the Minister aware that hundreds of rural voluntary organisations will be grateful that the capital grant scheme has been reprieved? Will he now publicly repent that he ever proposed such a stupid scheme?

Mr. Fletcher

I am glad to have the hon. Gentleman's support. The Government undertook extensive consultation, as a result of which my right hon. Friend decided to continue the scheme, although there may be some administrative changes, as the general public had made their wishes known so well.

Mr. John MacKay

Is my hon. Friend aware of the considerable pleasure and support for the decision announced to my hon. Friend the Member for Dumfries (Sir H. Monro)? Is he aware that throughout Scotland rural organisations, such as village hall committees, scouts and guides, greatly welcome the proposal to continue putting money into the rural areas rather than adding it to the already considerable sums given to urban areas?

Mr. Fletcher

I am delighted that there is such agreement on both sides of the House today.

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