§ Mr. Alan ReidTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what response she has received from the Scottish Executive to her consultation about transferring functions to the Scottish Ministers regarding financial assistance for shipping services which start or finish outside Scotland. [51397]
§ Mr. Foulkes[holding answer 19 April 2002]: The Scotland Office has held detailed discussions with the Scottish Executive on the proposed transfer of functions to Scottish Ministers regarding financial assistance to shipping services. An order under section 63 of the Scotland Act will shortly be laid before Parliament. Subject to approval, this order will devolve to Scottish 68W Ministers a power to provide financial support for shipping services between the Highlands and Islands and Northern Ireland.