§ Mr. KennedyTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, if he will detail the total monies so far paid out,438W to individuals and local authorities, respectively, as a result of the severe weather conditions earlier in the current year; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LangMy right hon. and learned Friend announced on 27 April details of the special financial assistance being made available, and invited claims from local authorities and those eligible for the higher rates of agricultural grants which were announced at the same time. To date, my officials have held discussions with several local authorities about the possibility of assistance, and a number of inquiries about agricultural grants have been made by persons affected by the severe weather in February. To date, however, no claims under these measures have been received, and therefore no payments have been made.