asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what proposals he has for strengthening the public services such as health, welfare, education and the police in Orkney and Shetland, in view of the likely extra demands upon them associated with the discovery of oil.

I am watching the situation carefully along with the authorities concerned to ensure that public services are maintained at a level consistent with demand.

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that the time has come for action? Does he recognise that the pay freeze has made it extremely difficult to recruit people and even to keep people in public service? Although the shortages are admittedly at present very small, does the right hon. Gentleman agree that the situation is worsening? Does he accept that Orkney and Shetland should be put in a position so as to be able to deal with the present situation?

I am much aware, as the right hon. Gentleman knows, of the impact which the new North Sea oil situation is having on Orkney and Shetland. I hope that he will bring to my notice any matters which he has in mind. We are keeping a general watch on the situation.