§ Dr. CHAPPLEasked the Lord Advocate whether he can offer to feuars in Scotland any hope of relief from Ecclesiastical Assessment Taxes which are still being levied for the erection and repair of churches in which they have no interest nor concern?
§ Mr. UREThe attitude of the Government towards this measure was stated by Lord Shaw of Dunfermline, when Lord Advocate, in the Debate on the Ecclesiastical Assessments (Scotland) Bill in the House of Commons on 26th February, 1907 (Parliamentary Debates, 4th Series, vol. 169, pp. 1547–1552), and I do not think that I can add to what was said then.
§ Dr. CHAPPLEWill the right hon. Gentleman kindly explain what was the cause of the delay in carrying out that policy?
§ Mr. UREThere was no definite promise given that legislation would be introduced, but Lord Shaw expressed entire approval of the resolution.
§ Dr. CHAPPLECan no hope be given of redress of the grievances under which these people are suffering from this tax?
Mr. KINGIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that grievances of this kind have led to passive resistance in England and may do so even in Scotland.
§ Dr. CHAPPLEWill the right hon. Gentleman offer any hope that next Session some relief will be given?