HC Deb 24 February 1914 vol 58 cc1581-2
36. Mr. PIRIE

asked the Secretary for Scotland when he proposes to fulfil the pledge given by him at Edinburgh on the 8th November, 1913, that the Government would draft and introduce a Bill according self-government to Scotland; and whether, in view of the introduction during this Session, of a Bill by the lion. Member for Ross and Cromarty for the better government of Scotland, he will take advantage of the opportunity by the Government taking up the Bill officially, or at least by co-operating with the said hon. Member in its drafting?

Mr. McKINNON WOOD

I am afraid the Government cannot give any pledge to deal with this question during the current Session.

Mr. PIRIE

Does the right hon. Gentleman admit having given the pledge referred to in this question at Edinburgh?

Mr. McKINNON WOOD

There is no allegation in the question that I gave a pledge that the matter would be dealt with this Session. The pledge I gave was that a Government Department would introduce a Bill.

Mr. PIRIE

Did not the right hon. Gentleman co-operate with the hon. Member for East Edinburgh in drafting the Small Landholders Amendment Bill which has been introduced into the House? Did not his Department co-operate with a private Member—myself—in drafting a Temperance Bill? Can he not see his way to co-operate with the hon. Member for Ross and Cromarty in drafting a self-government Bill for Scotland, so that we may know where we are?

Mr. MCKINNON WOOD

I have no authority to give such a pledge.

Mr. PIRIE

Cannot the right hon. Gentleman take it upon himself? As Ireland is going to be discussed for three hours to-night, I shall ask for half an hour for Scotland on the Adjournment.