§ Mr. Bill WalkerTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has any plans to visit the storm and flood-damaged areas of north Tayside to assess the amount of public aid required to restore the area; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir Hector MonroMy right hon. Friend the Minister for Education and Housing and I have visited Perth and the surrounding area to assess the damage at first hand. The Government have triggered the Bellwin scheme to assist Tayside authorities with expenditure incurred by them in dealing with the effects of the flooding. We have also arranged for special assistance to be provided for the repair of flood defences for agricultural areas.