§ Mr. Kennedyasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what measures his Department is pursuing to ensure that uplands in the Highlands due to be ploughed for the purposes of the afforestation are fully surveyed for the purposes of protecting the local archaeological heritage prior to such activity; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AncramThe principal role in archaeological survey in Scotland lies with the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland. In certain instances of imminent threats to sites the Scottish Development Department may also commission surveys. Archaeological sites of national importance may be afforded protection through scheduling under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. The Scottish Development Department maintains close liaison with the Forestry Commission in relation to proposals for afforestation.
§ Mr. Kennedyasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will introduce legislation to extend the provisions of part 2 of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 to Scotland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AncramMy right hon. and learned Friend has no proposals at present to bring part II of the Act into force in Scotland.
Mr. Kennedy asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will detail and define the respective functions and responsibilities within his Department as they affect the interface between conservation and afforestation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AncramWithin the Scottish Office, the main responsibility for advising my right hon. and learned Friend and myself on conservation matters rests with the Scottish Development Department. Regular contact is356W maintained between the Department and the Forestry Commission about the interaction between forestry and conservation.