Mr. CATHCART WASONasked the Lord Advocate if he is aware of the number of motor cars now registered and in everyday use in Shetland, and that, owing to the condition of the roads and the existing rates, it is impossible for the county of Zetland to do anything towards promoting a motor service in the county, or to apply to the Development Commissioners for an advance for this purpose, unless and until a substantial grant has been received with which to make the roads suitable for motor traffic; and if, in view of the fact that the population of Zetland, as shown by the last Census, has largely decreased owing to poor fishings, lack of other employment, and consequent emigration, the Congested Districts Board will make such a grant as will enable the county council to apply for a grant to the Development Commissioners?
§ The LORD ADVOCATE (Mr. Ure)I am not aware of the precise number of motor cars now registered and in everyday use in Shetland. It is not I think the case that the population of Shetland has largely decreased, the figure for 1901 being 28,166, and for 1911 27,911. I cannot hold out any prospect of a grant out of the funds of the Congested Districts Board for this purpose.