AS MPs prepare to discuss the uncertain future of Knoydart, a Government Minister has voiced his anger at the latest problems to affect the troubled Highland estate.

In a Commons debate on Knoydart which he has secured for early next month, local MP David Stewart will claim the controversial stewardship of the 17,000-acre estate shows the need for radical reform of land ownership in Scotland.

Concern is growing at the actions of the estate's current owners, Knoydart Peninsula Limited (KPL), and there are mounting calls for locals to be able to buy the land themselves.

Two of KPL's leading lights are being investigated by the Serious Fraud Office and Department of Trade and Industry, and the firm owes #1.4m to the Bank of Scotland.

Last night Scottish Office Industry Minister Brian Wilson told The Herald: ''Everyone with Knoydart's interests at heart deplores the latest round of speculation, which as usual has been carried out over the heads of the people who live there.''