§ MR. MARKHAM (Nottinghamshire, Mansfield)To ask the Lord-Advocate whether his attention has been directed to the disturbances at Auchterarder, Perthshire, on Sundays the 19th and 26th instant, when members of the Free Church congregation were stoned and assaulted when leaving their place of worship; and whether he will order an inquiry into the matter, with a view to affording protection in future to the worshippers.
(Answered by Mr. Scott Dickson.) The disturbances referred to were brought to my knowledge. I caused inquiry to be made, and put myself in communication with the sheriff on the subject. Steps have already been taken to put a stop to the conduct referred to; these steps were largely effective on the 26th instant; and I am communicating further with the local authorities, and believe all cause of complaint will now be removed.