§ MR. WATT (Glasgow, Camlachie)asked the First Lord of the Treasury, Whether the attention of the Government has been called to the alleged discovery of alluvial gold in Scotland; and, whether the Government will authorize an expert to investigate the matter on the spot; or what steps they propose to take so as to test the accuracy of the statements which have recently been made on the subject?
§ THE FIRST LORD (Mr. W. H. SMITH) (Strand, Westminster)As to the alleged discovery of gold in Scotland, gold has been known to exist there for several centuries, and Reports on the subject, drawn up in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, are in the Record 1032 Office. No information has reached the Government with reference to any recent discovery of gold in Scotland; and there is apparently therefore no need for making any official inquiry into the matter.
§ SIR GEORGE CAMPBELLMay I ask how Queen Elizabeth came to inquire in Scotland?
§ MR. W. H. SMITHI am sure the hon. Gentleman will see that it is not my part or duty to inquire into that matter.