§ The following question stood on the Paper in the name of Mr. CATHCART WASON:
§ 95. To ask the Secretary for Scotland if he is aware that on the 27th of June last a special meeting of the Lerwick Town Council was held to consider a letter from six clergymen residing in Lerwick with reference to the prohibition of spirits, and that, in consequence thereof, the clergymen have been threatened individually with prosecution; and if he 319 will veto such prosecution until he satisfies himself by independent inquiry outside local influence that it is justified.
Mr. WASONMight I be allowed to point out that the question was addressed to the Secretary of the Admiralty and all the papers and correspondence have been sent to him? I have received no notice from the right hon. Gentleman.
§ Mr. SPEAKERWill the hon. Gentleman wait and see who answers the question?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAMy right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. The Local Competent Naval Authority seems to have had some reason for feeling aggrieved, but a full report on the matter has been called for, and in the meantime he has been instructed that no proceedings are to be taken.