HC Deb 15 May 1996 vol 277 cc472-3W
Mr. Maclennan

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what representations he has received from those involved in the tourist industry on the east coast of Sutherland about the potential impact on local visitor numbers of proposals to establish wind farms at West Garty and Gartymore; [29483]

(2) what representations he has received from crofters about the proposal to develop a wind farm on common grazing land at Gartymore, East Sutherland; [29482]

(3) pursuant to his answer on 7 May, Official Report, column 63, how many of the letters in support of proposals to develop wind farms at West Garty and Gartymore were received from those who have a financial interest in the proposed developments through payments they will receive from RES Ltd. and Micon Ltd. if the developments proceed. [29485]

Mr. Kynoch

[holding answer 14 May 1996]: Of the 412 letters of objection that my right hon. Friend has received about the wind farm proposals at West Garty and Gartymore, Sutherland, 11 proprietors of various tourism related businesses have commented on the development's potential harm to the industry.

One crofter has written against the proposal, but only in general terms. Letters in a similar vein have been received from two local farmers and a shareholder in local grazing.

Of the 10 letters written in support, five were received from family members with a financial interst in the developments.