§ Mr. John MacLeodasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many comprehensive schemes on a township basis have been applied for in the County of Ross and Cromarty; and how many of these schemes have been formally approved and approved in principle, and are still being examined, respectively; and if he will state the names of the townships.
§ Mr. J. StuartUnder the Hill Farming Act, 15 applications for comprehensive schemes on a township basis have been received in the County of Ross and Cromarty. Three of these schemes have been formally approved, one scheme has been approved in principle and two schemes are still being examined. Of the remaining applications, three could not be accepted as the land did not comprise a unit suitable for rehabilitation, five had to be refused as the applicants were unwilling to embark on a sufficiently comprehensive scheme, and one was withdrawn, grant being offered instead under the Scheme for the Assistance of Marginal Agricultural Production.
With reference to the final part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to him on 8th April.