§ 72. Mr. Grimondasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what experiments have been carried out in the drying of grass by electricity; how far this has proved successful and economic; and what steps are being taken to make facilities available to small farmers and crofters.
§ Mr. J. StuartFor several years the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board have conducted experiments in the drying of hay and grass, of which details are given on page 22 of their Report for 1952. I understand that additional plants are being provided in 1953, and that it is proposed to experiment with a plant at Plockton which can be used by small farmers and crofters on a community basis. The process is, however, still in the development stage.