§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) whether he expects mining in Ayrshire to decline, as forecast in the Strathclyde Survey Report 1976; and what additional help he intends offering to the regional council to enable it to assist with the promotion of alternative jobs in mining areas;
(2) what special steps he intends taking to overcome the grave employment problems created by a rundown in mining jobs in the Girvan area of South Ayrshire.
§ Mr. Gregor MacKenzieThe forecasts in the Strathclyde Regional Report were based on material supplied by the National Coal Board. Every effort will be made within the Government's regional policies and by the Scottish Development Agency to create alternative employment.