To ask the Scottish Executive when it will make an announcement on the proposal to build a maximum 3 megawatt hydro-electric generating scheme at River E, near Loch Mhor, Inverness-shire.

I can announce that the Scottish ministers have granted consent to this proposal in terms of section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989. Additionally, this consent carries deemed planning permission in terms of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997.

This announcement follows a lengthy consultation process which involved government bodies and members of the public. Following consultation with The Highland Council, conditions were attached to this consent to safeguard local and environmental interests.