§ 28. Mr. MORTONasked the Lord Advocate whether his attention has been called to the sentence passed on two young men at the Sheriff's Court, Dornoch, Sutherland, on the 12th January last, and to the observations made by the sheriff-substitute when he imposed the highest penalty and suggested that the two young men should have enlisted in the Army; whether these two young men stayed at home to support their aged parents; whether in both cases these young men had brothers who were serving in His Majesty's Forces; whether these two young men could be punished for not having enlisted; whether these sort of observations and sentences are likely to have a deterrent effect on recruiting in the county; whether the sentences can be modified; and whether in the ease of one of these young men it was his first appearance in Court?
The SECRETARY for SCOTLAND (Mr. McKinnon Wood)I have made inquiry and am informed by the sheriff that the fact that the men had not enlisted had nothing to do with the fines imposed. I am not prepared to recommend modification of the sentences. It was held proved that the young men concerned in the case had used rifles to poach deer, and the sheriff suggested that they might have used them to better purpose for the defence of their country. I have no information as to the other parts of the question, which do not appear to be relevant to the case
§ Mr. MORTONWill the right hon. Gentleman cause inquiry to be made?
Mr. McKINNON WOODI have caused inquiry to be made, and I think that there is no need for any further inquiry.
§ Mr. MORTONHas the right hon. Gentleman heard the other side?
§ Mr. MORTONI desire to give notice that I will call attention, not to-day, but on the Adjournment, as soon as I get further particulars.