MR. CATHCART WASOX (Orkney and Shetland)I beg to ask the Lord-Advocate if he is aware that churches which may have been occasionally used for temperance meetings, lectures, and objects connected with Christianity have been called upon to pay rates, and that exceptions have been made in certain cases in respect of parish churches; and, if so, whether, in remote districts where no other building is available for such meetings, the old practice will be reverted to.
*MR. SCOTT DICKSONThe matter referred to by the hon. Member is governed by the Statute 37 and 38 Vic. c. 20. An important decision was given by the Court of Session in January, 1901, in a sense adverse to exemption in the particular case before it (The Trustees of United Free Church v. Parish Council Edinburgh 3 Fraser 414). The Secretary for Scotland is unable to take any action, the question being one which must be governed by the decision of the Courts. I am not aware of the exceptions referred to. Details as to the exemptions allowed are given in the Local Government Board's circular of 28th October, 1896.