HC Deb 29 November 1917 vol 99 c2230
90. Mr. WATT

asked the Secretary for Scotland what are the extra-judicial duties which sheriffs-principal in Scotland perform in return for their salaries of £700 to £850 per annum; are these duties not performable by the sheriffs-substitute under the terms of their appointment; and whether in the majority of instances the substitutes actually do the duties?

Mr. MUNRO

In reply to the first part of the question, I would refer my hon. and learned Friend to my reply of the 28th February last. The answers to the second and third parts of the question are in the negative.

Mr. WATT

Why does my right hon. Friend persistently protect the holders of these offices in Scotland? The office of Secretary of State for Scotland was instituted to preserve Scotland against lawyers.