HC Deb 23 February 1987 vol 111 cc56-7W
Mr. Ron Davies

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will list forestry grant applications approved in the Western Isles in the last three years.

Mr. John MacKay

The Information is as follows:

Scheme Area Approved for New Planting (hectares) Area Approved for Restocking (hectares)
Eishken, Lewis 47.8 —
Scheme Area Approved for New Planting (hectares) Area Approved for Restocking (hectares)
Gleann Gheireasdail, North Uist 524.3 —
Stornaway Trust, Lewis 7.0 —
Borve Lodge Estates, Lewis 7.2 2.3
Stornoway Trust, Lewis — 1.9
Achmore, Lewis 1.5 —

Mr. Ron Davies

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if the Forestry Commission proposes any new planting in the Western Isles; and if he will make a statement concerning its view of the forestry potential of that area.

Mr. John MacKay

The Forestry Commission has no plans at present to carry out new planting in the Western Isles. A range of trees will grow successfully on the islands, particularly where there is some shelter. The scale of planting in the future will depend mainly on private sector interest.