§ Mr. James Whiteasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if any changes in the management of Royal parks and ancient monuments in Scotland are planned; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MillanWith my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment I have been reviewing the management of Royal Parks and ancient monuments in Scotland. Under the Transfer of440W Functions (Scottish Royal Parks and Ancient Monuments) Order 1969 ministerial functions in relation to Royal parks and ancient monuments in Scotland were transferred to the Secretary of State for Scotland. The Property Services Agency Service in Scotland has, however, been providing the works services and custodial and other staff on my behalf.
My right hon. Friend and I now agree that it would simplify administration if from 1st April overall responsibility in relation to Royal parks and ancient monuments were undertaken by the Scottish Development Department. This change in responsibilities will take place on 1st April and the appropriate adjustments have been made in the submitted financial estimates for 1978–79. The staff assocations are being consulted about the timing and arrangements for the transfer of staff from the Department of the Environment to the Scottish Development Department.