HC Deb 04 December 1884 vol 294 cc622-3
MR. MACFARLANE

asked the Lord Advocate, If his attention has been called to the evidence of Mr. John Crawford, factor, given at Bonar Bridge before the Royal Commission, in which that gentleman, in reply to question 39,595, said— There has been a considerable reduction made to large tenants, and, instead of making a reduction to the small tenants, the Duke has expended £515 this year in providing seed, corn, and potatoes for them. He has also given me £500 to lay out in works of trenching and improving their lots; if he is aware that Mr. Crawford is now threatening summary proceedings before the Sheriff for the recovery of the cost of the seed, corn, and potatoes said to have been given instead of a reduction of rent; and, if the crofters have any legal remedy against this claim?

THE LORD ADVOCATE (Mr. J. B. BALFOUR)

The passage quoted in the Question does occur in the evidence of Mr. John Crawford. He states that the seed was not given as a gift, but on the distinct stipulation and condition that it should be paid for, though the term of payment was deferred, and he has addressed a communication to the tenants demanding payment. If the allegation that the seed was given upon an obligation for payment is disputed, and it is asserted that it was given as a gift, the matter can be decided in the same way as any other disputed question.

MR. MACFAELANE

I wish to ask a further Question—whether Mr. Crawford does not dispute the accuracy of the Question, but says that the seed potatoes were given as a gift? Mr. Crawford took credit before the Commissioners for the gift.

THE LORD ADVOCATE (Mr. J. B. BALFOUR)

I must point out that the words of Mr. Crawford's evidence did not express what the hon. Member puts to me. It may be that is the interpretation of them; but, of course, no matter stated ex parte in this way would effect a contract, if there was a contract.

MR. MACFARLANE

I beg to give Notice that on the earliest occasion I will call attention to this question.