§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will list the beaches that meet the blue flag award standards, and those which fail to match the criteria of the scheme; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonThe blue flag award scheme is organised under the patronage and sponsorship of the European Commission. The criteria for the award of a blue flag relate both to water quality and to the management of the beach and its general facilities. It is for local authorities to decide whether they wish to apply for such awards for beaches in their areas. I understand that currently no Scottish beaches hold a blue flag award.