§ * MR. WEIR (Ross and Cromarty)I beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland, having regard to the fact that the election of a school board for the parish of Lochs, Island of Lewis, recently failed through the notice of the election not being posted on the school door sufficiently early to admit of the nomination papers reaching the returning officers by the date specified, will he ascertain why the returning officer has not reported the failure of the election; and will instructions be given for a fresh election.
§ THE SECRETARY FOR SCOTLAND (Mr. SINCLAIR,) ForfarshireThe returning officer has now reported to the Scotch Education Department that no election has taken place, inasmuch as the number of candidates nominated for election and not withdrawn was less than the number to be elected. The Department is now taking steps with a view to nominate a full board, but if that is found to be impracticable a fresh election will be ordered.
§ * MR. WEIRasked if the right hon. Gentleman would make further inquiry as to the gross irregularities mentioned in the first part of his Question?
§ MR. SINCLAIRYes, Sir.