§ Mr. Buchanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if, with reference to the consultative paper "Crafts in Scotland" issued on 15 October by the Scottish Development Agency, the Scottish Arts Council, the Highlands and Islands Development Board and the Scottish Museums Council, he will state (a) how many consultative papers were circulated, (b) how many responses were received, (c) into what categories the responses were divided and (d) what action is now proposed in the light of the responses.
§ Mr. LangThe consultation paper was distributed to a total of 3,260 craftsmen, of whom 129 commented. Of the 129 comments, 76 were either totally or broadly in favour of the proposals, 32 were totally against the proposals and 15 were considered not to be relevant. In respect of the conservation aspects of the consultation paper, six comments were received, all in favour of the proposal. A summary of the responses to the consultation paper has been submitted to my Department and is being taken into account, together with other representations received, in the consideration of the proposals which is currently in hand.