HC Deb 02 August 1897 vol 52 cc102-3
MR. WEIR

I beg to ask the Lord Advocate, as representing the Secretary for Scotland, with reference to the fact that tenants whoso rents do not exceed £4 per annum are not entitled to vote at School Board elections, whether he is aware that in the Island of Lewis, out of 3,160 crofters who are entitled to vote in county and parish council elections, as many as 3,060 are disqualified to vote at School Board elections by reason of their rents being less than £4; and, will he state whether a Bill will be introduced next Session to extend the franchise for School Board elections.

* THE LORD ADVOCATE (Mr. GRAHAM MURRAY,) Buteshire

In March 1896, the hon. Member asked a similar Question, based upon the same figures, which he was then informed were not supported by the statistics supplied to the Education Department. I have no reason to think that these figures are now more correct than they were in 1896. The subject will receive consideration, but I am unable to pledge the Government as to the course which will be pursued.