HC Deb 28 July 1960 vol 627 cc211-2W
Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the amount of financial assistance he has offered Ross and Cromarty County Council for the provision of a jetty and approach road at Kirkibost, Bernera, Isle of Lewis; what is the total estimated cost of the scheme; and when the work is likely to begin.

Mr. Maclay

I have offered Ross and Cromarty County Council a grant of £4,824 towards the cost, estimated at £6,432, of revised proposals for the construction of a jetty and access road at Kirkibost which the council submitted last month. If the council accepts the offer I know of no reason why the work should not proceed forthwith.

Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans or proposals and requests for financial assistance he has received from Inverness County Council in connection with the construction of the proposed jetty in Eriskay.

Mr. Maclay

No proposals have been received from the county council for the construction of a jetty in Eriskay.

Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what financial assistance he is prepared to offer Ross and Cromarty County Council towards the cost of construction of a jetty and ancillary works at Brevig, Isle of Lewis; if he will state the causes of the delay in reaching agreement with the county council about this scheme; and what steps he is taking to expedite a start with the work.

Mr. Maclay

The proposed meeting between representatives of the County Council and officials of my Department, to which I referred in the reply I gave to the hon. Member on 26th May, took place at Brevig on 6th July. Means of improving the landing facilities were discussed with the local fishermen and I hope as a result that a revised scheme can soon be worked out.

Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress has been made in his negotiations with Ross and Cromarty County Council for the extension of the jetty at Portnaguran, Isle of Lewis; what is the estimated cost of the work and his Department's contribution; and when the work is likely to be started.

Mr. Maclay

I understand that the county council is considering a report by its consulting engineers on possible improvements at Portnaguran Pier. No proposals have as yet been put to me by the council.