HC Deb 01 December 1909 vol 13 cc484-5
Mr. JEREMIAH MacVEAGH

asked the Lord Advocate whether his attention has been called to the character of the speech delivered by Bailie Ferguson, at Motherwell Town Hall, on Wednesday, the 24th ultimo, with reference to sectarian disturbances there; whether he proposes to take steps with a view to having this bailie prosecuted and declared incapable of exercising magisterial functions; whether Bailie Ferguson has himself been imprisoned on a criminal charge; and whether the attention of the Court of Session has been directed to the speech of a local solicitor who also attacked the sheriff at the same meeting?

The LORD ADVOCATE (Mr. Ure)

My attention has been directed to a speech delivered by Bailie Ferguson in Motherwell Town Hall on 27th of November. I have ascertained that no meeting of the character indicated took place on 24th November. I am at present considering certain questions which have been brought under my notice in regard to this meeting, and meantime I must refrain from making any further statement regarding them. My information is that Bailie Ferguson was imprisoned on a criminal charge. The answer to the last part of the hon. Gentleman's question is in the negative.

Mr. MacVEAGH

May I ask the Lord Advocate whether the attention of the Court of Sessions will be directed to the speech of the solicitor in view of 0the fact that he was guilty of contempt of Court?

Mr. URE

That I cannot say.