HC Deb 20 February 1894 vol 21 c834
DR. MACGREGOR (Inverness-shire)

I beg to ask the Lord Advocate whether the Sheriff Substitute of Fort William has yet intimated his resignation of office; and whether, in appointing his successor, preference will be given to a Gaelic-speaking candidate, other things being equal?

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

The Sheriff Substitute of Fort William has not yet intimated his resignation of office. In filling such offices the whole qualifications of candidates are considered.

DR. MACGREGOR

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, practically speaking, the entire population of this district are Gaelic-speaking, and would it not be highly desirable that a Gaelic-speaking Sheriff should administer the law there?

MR. J. B. BALFOUR

I said the "whole qualifications" of candidates are considered in these cases.

DR. MACGREGOR

I want a straight reply to a straight question. [Cries of "Order!"] I wish to know whether, other things being equal, a candidate who speaks Gaelic ought not to be appointed?

MR. J. B. BALFOUR

I can only repeat that the whole qualifications of candidates, including the knowledge of the Gaelic, will be considered.