§ Mr. Corrieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress has been made in connection with the proposed integrated development programme for the Western Isles; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. YoungerI have approved the terms of a programme drawn up by officials after they had undertaken a wide range of consultations in the Western Isles. We shall be taking steps to encourage the people of these islands to take full advantage of the opportunities afforded by this development, for which the bulk of the funds will be provided by the United Kingdom Government, to secure a real and lasting improvement in their living standards. Copies of the programme have been placed in the Library.
The programme caters for the development of agriculture and fisheries through measures covering general land improvements, the planting of shelter belts, pest control, the development of horticulture, the introduction of livestock improvement schemes, improvements in fisheries infrastructure, assistance for fish farming and assistance for the processing and marketing of agricultural and fishery produce. It is also proposed that there should be an expansion of the existing education, training and advisory services so that guidance would be available to those participating in new schemes. Subject to limits set out in the regulation, the Community will meet 40 per cent. of the cost of approved expenditure.
The programme also contains information on projected developments relating to tourist amenities, crafts, industrial and other complementary activities essential to the improvement of the general socio-economic situation in the Western Isles. There is no provision for a Community contribution towards expenditure on measures other than those related to agriculture and fisheries, but, where appropriate, we shall seek aid from the European regional development fund and the European social fund under the usual arrangements.
We have forwarded the programme to the European Commission and expect to obtain its clearance in time to allow work to proceed this summer.