§ 18. Mr. Harry BarnesTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what use is being made of the Bellwin scheme to help local authorities deal with the consequences of the storm damage in Scotland on 13 February.
§ Mr. LangIt is too soon to say whether it would be appropriate to invoke the Bellwin scheme in relation to the recent storms.
§ 32. Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the latest estimate of the cost of the clearing-up operations following the storm of 13 February.
§ 44. Mr. KennedyTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is yet in a position to announce details of his response to local authorities and other interested parties within the Highlands and Islands on financial assistance following the flooding and storm damage of this winter; and if he will make a statement.
§ 47. Mr. Tom ClarkeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he next expects to meet the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities to discuss the financial implications of the recent severe weather in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LangIt is too soon to assess the full extent and cost of damage and restoration work arising from the228W recent flooding and storms. Rather than initiate discussions with the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities, my right hon. and learned Friend has sought detailed reports directly from those authorities in the Highlands affected by the flooding, and from housing authorities, so that he can make an assessment of the situation as soon as possible. He made it clear in the House on 14 February that if other authorities make representations about excessive costs, he will consider these on the basis of principles for financial assistance well established in previous years. A decision on whether special financial assistance would be appropriate for any area will be made as soon as reports have been received and assessed.