§ Mr. Steelasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received in the last year about the current procedures for the laying of water pipelines in rural areas; and if he is satisfied with such procedures.
§ Mr. YoungerI have received representations from, and on behalf of, the Scottish Landowners Federation and the National Farmers Union of Scotland. I believe that the present procedures are fair but if the bodies concerned have new points to make I should be glad to receive them.
§ Mr. Steelasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will take steps to secure a standard national agreement, including wayleave payments, for the laying of water pipelines in rural areas between the relevant authorities and bodies representing farm and landowners; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. YoungerI have informed landowning and farming interests that we will be prepared to discuss wayleaves, if they wish, during the consultations about water legislation currently being arranged.