§ Mr. Malcolm MacMillanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what recommendations the Highlands and Islands Development Board has made to him as a result of its examination of the effects of the shipping strike on the Scottish Islands; and what action he is taking.
§ Mr. RossThe Board has recommended that every effort should be made to keep transport charges in the areas concerned steady over the next two years and it has sought approval for better terms and conditions governing grants under Section 8 of its Act.
So far as transport charges are concerned, I have assured the Board that the special problems of the Islands will continue to be borne in mind. I have 320W also approved a substantial increase in the maximum limit for the special grant which the Board may make to projects of special significance or need. The Board will also be able in suitable cases to offer a higher rate of building grant comparable to that provided under Section 17(1) of the Industrial Development Act 1966, that is 35 per cent. as against the normal 25 per cent.