§ 50. Mr. SHINWELLasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that large numbers of people from the Western Highlands of Scotland have recently emigrated; whether the Government have received a memorial from the Highland and Islands Committee of the Free Church in relation thereto, embodying their views regarding the agricultural and industrial development of the High lands; and whether the Government propose to take action in the matter?
§ Captain ELLIOT (Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Health, Scotland)I have been asked to reply. I understand that a considerable number of people have recently gone to Canada from the Western Islands. The reply to the second part of the question is in the affirmative. My Noble Friend has agreed to receive a deputation next month from the Highlands and Islands Committee of the Free Church on the subject of the memorial.
§ Mr. SHINWELLDoes not the serious de-population of the Western Highlands and the driving away of the best of Scottish manhood from that part of the country call for the special consideration and immediate attention of the Government?
§ Captain ELLIOTThis Committee asked my right hon. Friend if he would receive them, and he has fully met their request.
§ Mr. SHINWELLIs it not the case that arrangements have been made for the continuance of this stream of emigration, and is it not desirable under the circumstances to take immediate steps to deal with it?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member must put that question on the Paper.