§ 8. Mr. GalbraithTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to protect the green belt.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Sir Hector Monro)My right hon. Friend's policy for protecting green belts is set out in Scottish development department circular 24/1985. Our consistent policy has been to maintain and enhance the green belt.
§ Mr. GalbraithThe Minister will know that much water authority land lies within the green belt. That land is much used and appreciated by my constituents in Strathkelvin and Bearsden. Will the Minister guarantee that, in the event of privatisation, no restrictions will be placed on access to the land, and, furthermore, that it will not be released for development so that private shareholders can rip off the public sector once again?
§ Sir Hector MonroThe hon. Gentleman makes a valid point. Most of our water resources come from land that is particularly attractive—the lochs and reservoirs—some of 284 which may include sites of special scientific interest. No concern should be felt about the future ownership of that land.