§ SIR JOHN STIRLING-MAXWELL (Glasgow College)To ask the Lord Advocate whether his attention has been called to the case of Robert Barr, coal dealer, who was tried at the Western Police Court, Glasgow, before Judge Martin, on 17th December last, charged with the receipt of five new coal bags stolen from the St. George Co-operative Society, Limited, Glasgow, which case was dismissed, although it was proved by the police and by the society's officials that Barr was in possession of the bags, each of which plainly bore the name of the said society, and although Barr could not satisfactorily account for the presence of the bags in his depot; and whether he will institute an inquiry into the subject, having regard to the fact that the society are not entitled to appeal against the said decision, although they are anxious to do so, because they have been subject to frequent thefts of their bags.
(Answer.) My attention has been called to the case mentioned by my hon. friend, and I have obtained information. Mr. Martin in the exercise of his discretion appears to have come to the conclusion that there was such conflict of evidence as to make it 543 necessary for him to act as he did. In these circumstances there is no room for any inquiry by me.—(Scottish Office.)