§ 16. Major Sir ARCHIBALD SINCLAIRasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has yet received the Report of the arbiter for the sheep-stock valuations at Eriboll, and whether he will place in the Library, for the information of hon. Members interested, copies of the missives of sale under which the Board of Agriculture purchased the estate and farm of Eriboll and copies of the missives of sale under which the Board sold the estate and farm of Eriboll?
§ The LORD ADVOCATEThe reply to the first part of the question is in the negative. As regards the second part, my right hon. Friend does not consider it necessary to take the course suggested. He has already undertaken to give the hon. and gallant Member the result of the arbiter's award when it has been made.
§ Sir A. SINCLAIRSurely, if this House is responsible for the administration of this estate, we have a right to know the terms upon which the transaction has been concluded? Further, why has the arbiter not reported before now in view of the fact that he made his valuation on 14th October—more than six weeks ago? Why is there all this concealment and delay?
§ The LORD ADVOCATEI am net aware that there has been any concealment at all. Of course my right hon. Friend would he answerable to this House for sanctioning the sale, and he has already stated that as soon as the transaction was completed, he would be prepared to answer any questions upon it. That was his answer to a supplementary question on 16th November last.
§ Sir A. SINCLAIRYes, the right hon. Gentleman said he would answer any questions, but cannot we have the actual terms of the transaction upon which we can put questions? There is no use putting questions if nobody has the facts.