HC Deb 02 February 1954 vol 523 cc16-7W
36. Mr. Woodburn

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland in what respects there has been any departure from the policy announced by former Secretaries of State for a consistent improvement in the well-being of the Highlands by a co-ordinated development of forestry and agriculture under his guidance.

Mr. J. Stuart

There has been no departure from the policy to which the right hon. Member refers. Within the last two years further surveys in the Highlands, covering more than half a million acres, have been put in hand, and some 24,000 acres of plantable land have been acquired in Highland survey areas.

37. Mr. Woodburn

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been called to the delays in the development of the Strathoykel scheme for a joint forestry and agriculture improvement; to what extent this delay is occasioned by the opposition of a minority of the local landowners; and what steps he proposes to take to see that the plan is carried to fulfilment at the earliest possible date.

Mr. J. Stuart

The development of the Strathoykell area is being pushed ahead. Sufficient land has been acquired to permit of a planting programme of 1,000 acres a year for the next five years—a reasonable programme in relation to the ultimate forest area envisaged. In addition to the 8,300 acres of plantable land already acquired or for which terms have been agreed, negotiations are in progress for the acquisition of considerable further areas. The landowners and tenants concerned have naturally their own views as to which areas can be spared from agricultural use and modifications of the original outline plan are necessary from time to time. I can assure the right hon. Member however that every effort will continue to be made to ensure the full success of the scheme.