§ Mr. Kennedyasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement concerning the conditions and circumstances surrounding the sale by the Forestry Commission of its Loch Hourn Estates and Glenely, with 386W particular regard to (a) the historical balance and blend of crofting and forestry activity locally and (b) the extent to which cognisance was taken of the Government's stipulations on disposal of forestry assets vis-a-vis the maintenance of socially fragile communities.
§ Mr. John MacKayThe sale of this plantation to an adjoining landowner was consistent with the Forestry Commission's aim of rationalising its estate. The sale in itself will not affect the historical balance between crofting and forestry in the area. The viability of the local community was considered carefully before a decision was taken to sell, but no redundancies will be necessary among the Commission's work force.