HC Deb 05 March 1906 vol 153 cc96-7
MR. JOHN DEWAR (Inverness)

I beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland if his attention has been directed to the agitation among the crofters and cottars in South Uist and Barra; and if he proposes to introduce legislation at an early day to remedy the grievances complained of.

* THE SECRETARY FOR SCOTLAND (Mr. SINCLAIR,) Forfarshire

The proceedings referred to are under my observation. As the hon. Member knows, the Government have announced their intention of amending and extending the Crofters' Act with a view to ameliorating the general condition of the crofter population.

MR. JOHN DEWAR

asked whether the Congested Districts Board have made any progress in regard to the settlement of crofters and cottars on lands in South Uist.

* MR. SINCLAIR

The negotiations have been unexpectedly difficult and protracted, but an agreement has now been adjusted for the creation of new holdings on the farms of Kilbride and Glendale. The farm of Gerinish, which the proprietrix is willing to deal with in a similar way, is not out of lease until Whitsunday, 1907.

MR. WEIR (Ross and Cromarty)

Are we to understand that a Bill to amend the Crofters Act will be brought in at an early date?

* MR. SINCLAIR

I can give no pledge as to the date.