§ MR. A. C. MORTONI beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland whether his attention has been called to a statement that the Deer Forest Commission intend to ask the people of Raasay and Brace-dale to give evidence at Portree, which is about 35 miles distant; and whether he will make arrangements so that the Royal Commission shall hold meetings within a convenient distance of the people's homes, as Lord Napier's Commission did in 1883?
§ SIR G. TREVELYANIn reply to the hon. Member, I can only say that the mode of conducting the inquiry referred to is a matter which lies entirely within the discretion of the Highlands and Islands Commission, and I am not prepared to interfere with their discretion without very grave cause. I may say that people in that part of Scotland think no more of going 35 miles by steamer than a person in London thinks of taking a hansom cab for a short distance.
§ MR. A. C. MORTONWill the right hon. Gentleman see that the expenses of these witnesses are paid, especially if they have to stay a night at Portree?
§ SIR G. TREVELYANThe Chairman of the Commission thoroughly knows the Highlands, and I am quite certain he will see that the witnesses are not put to unnecessary expense.
§ MR. A. C. MORTON; But will the right hon. Gentleman give instructions that the expenses of these poor people shall be paid?
§ SIR G. TREVELYANI will send a copy of these questions to the President of the Commission. I cannot interfere with him.