§ Mr. Laurance Reedasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that large limestone deposits have been found in the Minches; and whether, in view of their value to the cement industry and as a fertiliser, he will take steps to ensure that they are exploited commercially.
§ Mr. Gordon CampbellThe Government are well aware of the existence of off-shore deposits of calcareous material in Scottish waters, but it is for commercial interests to decide for themselves whether exploitation would be profitable.