§ Mr. Russell Johnstonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will seek to instigate immediate research to establish the extent to which the transport cost/distance factor inhibits investment in peripheral areas.
681W
§ Mr. Gordon CampbellI am doubtful whether such research as the hon. Member suggests would yield useful results. Scotland has already proved an attractive location for investment by both United Kingdom and overseas companies. It is, however, clear that fast and reliable transport links, both within Scotland and between Scotland and other centres, are of vital importance, and the Government's present programme provides for continuing improvements in these.