asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he will decide on the Scottish Tourist Board's request for a special grant; and whether he will make a statement.

I have been having discussions with the Chairman and other representatives of the Board on financial and other matters and am meeting them again later today. I hope to be able to make an announcement shortly about the outcome of these discussions.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a satisfactory outcome will be welcomed? Is he further aware that it is very necessary, when there is every appearance that this has been a bad spring and early summer for the tourist trade, that the Board should have the extra ammunition to attract tourists to the Highlands?

I sincerely hope that the outcome will be satisfactory.