HC Deb 21 May 1968 vol 765 c59W
55 and 56. Mr. Peter M. Jackson

asked the Secretary of State for Defence (1) whether he will instruct the Commanding Officer of 107 Field Squadron that in constructing the road between Camasunary and Coruisk, he is not to blast Bad Step; and that he should be mindful of the conservation and preservation of the amenities of the countryside;

(2) what were the dates during which the 75 Engineer Regiment (V), based on the Territorial and Army Volunteer Reserve centre, Oldham Road, Failsworth, Manchester, intend to operate in the Camasunary-Coruisk area of Skye.

Mr. Boyden

The Royal Engineers have been asked by Inverness County Council to carry out improvements to mountain rescue facilities in the Camasunary-Coruisk area of Skye.

The proposals which are being studied by the Countryside Commission for Scotland do not now, I understand, involve the blasting of "Bad Step".

The work is due to be carried out between 8th and 22nd June by 75 Engineer Regiment (V), a T.A.V.R. unit.

Mr. Peter M. Jackson

asked the Secretary of State for Defence who were the parties and the amenity interests consulted before plans were put in hand for engineering work in the Camasunary-Coruisk area of Skye; and what were the details of their replies.

Mr. Boyden

Inverness County Council are responsible for consultations with interested parties.

Mr. Peter M. Jackson

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will state the cost to the public funds of the work to be undertaken by 107 Field Squadron Territorial and Army Volunteer Reserve in the Camasunary-Coruisk area of Skye.

Mr. Boyden

The extra cost to public funds, none of which will fall on Service votes, will be about £1,600.