HC Deb 11 June 1894 vol 25 cc805-6
DR. MACGREGOR (Inverness-shire)

I beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland if he is aware that two members of the Highlands and Islands Commission have attended in this House during the past three weeks; and if he will consider how such attendance must interfere with his duties on the Commission, with a view of securing that members of the Commission should give their time and attention to the work of the Commission?

THE SECRETARY FOR SCOTLAND (Sir G. TREVELYAN,) Glasgow, Bridgeton

The Highlands and Islands Commission is diligently engaged in its work, which I have every reason to believe is being thoroughly and successfully done. I am not answerable for the attendance at any given period of any individual member of the Royal Commission.

DR. MACGREGOR

Can the right hon. Gentleman say why these Commissioners have not attended any meeting of the Commission during the last three weeks?

SIR G. TREVELYAN

I have already said I am not answerable for their attendance.

DR. MACGREGOR

Then who is answerable? If these gentlemen cannot attend will they retire and make room for others?

SIR G. TREVELYAN

I believe they rendered public service of a very arduous character during last year. I can add nothing to my answer.

DR. MACGREGOR

I shall move to reduce the right hon. Gentleman's salary on the Estimates.