HC Deb 31 January 1996 vol 270 cc799-800W
25. Mr. David Marshall

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how much additional financial help he has given to local authorities to deal with the problems caused by the recent severe weather. [10812]

Mr. Kynoch

We have made it clear that we are prepared to consider sympathetically claims both for Bellwin scheme assistance and for additional capital consents. My officials are already working with the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities to gather detailed information on revenue costs. We have received, very recently, a number of initial requests for capital consent, but further information will be required before we can consider these. As soon as detailed claims are received, they will be considered as a matter of urgency.