§ Mr. DunnachieTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many of Scotland's historic buildings are being eroded as a result of acid rain; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-Hamilton[holding answer 9 July 1990]: There is no accurate information available upon which to determine how many of Scotland's historic buildings are being eroded as a result of acid rain. The issues involved are complex and further detailed research is required to clarify and assess all the factors involved.
Officials of the Scottish Development Department participated in the Department of the Environment's building effects review group on acid deposition which reported in 1989. A current national materials exposure programme arising from the group's recommendations includes five sites in Scotland. There will be continued co-operation in future research programmes with a view to answering many of the outstanding questions which were raised following the publication of the group's first report.