§ MR. MUNRO-FERGUSONasked, Whether the Lord Advocate's attention has been called to two cases of mutilation of sheep in the Island of Lewis, one in the month of June last, and the other on the 4th November; and, whether any steps in the matter will be taken by the authorities?
THE LORD ADVOCATE (Mr. J. B. BALFOUR)I am familiar with the first case referred to by my hon. Friend. The circumstances were very peculiar. After careful consideration, it was decided that there was not sufficient ground for a criminal prosecution, whatever ground there might be for a civil action at the instance of the owner of the sheep. The second case has not yet been reported; but I shall cause inquiry to be made in regard to it, and it will be duly considered.