§ Mr. Grimondasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received over the assessment of the economic status of crofters; and if procedures have now been agreed on this matter with the Crofters Commission.
§ Mr. William RossThere is no provision in statute for assessment of the economic status of crofters. Persons other than crofters applying for assistance under the Crofting Counties Agricultural Grants Scheme are, however, required to show that they are of substantially the same economic status as crofters. Representations were recently received from the National Farmers' Union of Scotland on this matter, and these have been resolved in consultations. The methods of assessment in so far as they are of concern to the Crofters Commission have been agreed with them.