§ Mr. Bostonasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement about measures to stimulate the economic development of more sparsely inhabited parts of the development areas.
§ Mr. DiamondYes. It has been agreed that the Development Commission shall extend their activities to make loans of up to £25,000 to small hotels, guest houses etc. in rural parts of the Development Areas, excluding the area covered by the Highlands and Islands Development Board, where similar arrangements already exist. The main purpose is to strengthen the economy of these areas by attracting more visitors and so providing more part-time or whole-time employment. Parliamentary approval for the additional expenditure is being sought. It is hoped to have the scheme in operation by 1st March, 1968.