§ 31. Mr. WATTasked the Secretary for Scotland whether he is aware that the number of cases that came before the Sheriff-Principal of the shires of Roxburgh, Berwick, and Selkirk was eleven and that the salary paid to such Sheriff was £750; and whether there is any intention of the Government bringing in legislation to consolidate Sheriffdoms in Scotland in order to economise in war time?
§ The LORD ADVOCATE (Mr. Clyde)My right hon. Friend has requested me to reply to this question. The reply to the first two parts of the question is in the affirmative, to the latter part in the negative. Such legislation as is suggested by the hon. and learned Member would not be calculated to produce the effect intended by him.
§ Mr. WATTWould the right hon. Gentleman describe persistent exposure of evils which are protected by the Secretary for Scotland and the Scottish Office as a "vendetta"?
§ Mr. CLYDEIf the hon. Gentleman asks me, I should describe his conduct in this matter as eminently well-described by that term.