§ Mr. Welshasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to encourage the reclamation of derelict land in Scotland; and what finances he has made available for this purpose.
§ Mr. Gregor MacKenzieThe reclamation of derelict land is now a matter for the Scottish Development Agency, which is fully aware of the priority which the Government attach to such work. Details of the Agency's estimated expenditure on derelict land clearance are published in the Supply Estimates.
§ Mr. Welshasked the Secretary of State for Scotland to what extent the findings of the Hudson Report on agricultural education have been applied in Scotland; and if he is satisfied with the present provision for such education.
§ Mr. McElhoneFollowing the announcement by my right hon. Friend the former Secretary of State for Education
590Wtown development corporations and the Highlands and Islands Development Board. Until 27th January 1977 my Department, and previously the Department of Industry was, however, responsible, outside the highlands and islands, for the approval of Government-financed advance factory programmes and the allocation of tenancies. Details of such factories relating to the period 1st April 1974 to 28th January 1977 are as follows:
and Science on 4th August 1976 and his decision not to set up an autonomous national validating and examining body for craft level courses in agriculture, horticulture and forestry as recommended in the Hudson Report, consideration has been given to the implications for Scotland. Officials of the Scottish Education Department have had discussions with the various bodies concerned about the possibility of introducing a new structure of courses on lines recommended in the report, and new examination arrangements. My right hon. Friend hopes to be able to make an announcement at an early date.