MR. J. McLEOD (Sutherland)I beg to ask the Lord Advocate, (1) whether there is likely to be much further delay in filling up the office of Sheriff Clerk of Sutherland; (2) whether, in making an appointment, provision will be made for confining the Sheriff Clerk strictly to the duties of his office; and, (3) whether, other things being equal, preference will be given to Gaelic-speaking candidates?
§ THE LORD ADVOCATEI anticipate that this office will be filled up within a few days. The restriction pointed out in the second paragraph is more stringent than has been adopted in some recent appointments; but I shall consider the terms of the commission carefully, with due regard to the amount of the salary. Among other qualifications for the office, a knowledge of the vernacular is taken into account.