HC Deb 27 April 1994 vol 242 cc216-7W
23. Mr. Galbraith

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what consideration he has given to the membership of the water authorities.

Sir Hector Monro

Membership of the new water authorities will include persons knowledgeable about the industry, and persons with proven business skills. We will also expect to see a significant number of local councillors taking up appointments. No individual members have yet been considered.

27. Mr. McAllion

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many water authorities he has visited in Scotland this year to discuss with them his proposals for removing water and sewerage services from local authority control.

Sir Hector Monro

My right hon. Friend has made no such visits. Discussion with local authorities has been prevented by the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities campaign of non-co-operation.

33. Mr. Salmond

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met representatives of the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities to discuss the future of water services in Scotland.

Sir Hector Monro

My right hon. Friend last discussed water and sewerage with COSLA on 9 July 1993. Subsequent discussion has been prevented by the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities boycott.

37. Mr. Wray

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the new water board to be set up in Scotland has autonomy to sell off land and property without consultation.

Sir Hector Monro

The Local Government Etc. (Scotland) Bill provides for new water authorities to dispose of land and property as they see fit. They may not, however, dispose of land for a consideration less than the best expected value on the open market without the consent of the Secretary of State.

39. Mr. Welsh

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last visited a local authority-run water treatment works.

Sir Hector Monro

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland has not made an official visit to a water treatment works.