§ Mr. Sproatasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had regarding the site at the Bridge of Don for a Scottish exhibition centre; and when he expects to announce a decision about Government or Government agency participation in the centre.
§ Mr. YoungerI have had discussions with the convener of Grampian regional council on the council's proposal to 461W develop an exhibition centre at the show-ground site, Bridge of Don, and my officials met the council's officials in November to consider various aspects of the project. The council has been informed that there is no special form of Government assistance currently available to meet the needs of this project. Participation by the Scottish Development Agency is a matter for it in the first instance. The council has requested my consent in terms of section 94 of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 to the council incurring liability to meet capital expenses on this project. I have informed the council that I cannot grant it an additional consent at present.