§ Mr. Buchanan-Smithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many applications he has received under the Farm Amalgamation Scheme; how many have been approved; and what is the average period between submission of application and payment of grant.
§ Mr. RossBy 31st October, 1968, I had received 401 applications for approval of amalgamation proposals. Of
428Wintends to consult local authorities and other interested bodies before reaching any conclusion. Any alteration in the present service would require my approval and if this were sought I should wish to take careful account of the views of all concerned before reaching a decision.