HC Deb 05 November 1919 vol 120 cc1494-5
58. Mr. WALLACE

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government can arrange to have the status of the Secretary for Scotland raised to that of Secretary of estate for Scotland, leaving for future consideration the question of increased remuneration?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I do not think there would be any advantage in adopting this suggestion. The status of the Secretary of Scotland is not in doubt, as is shown, for example, by his inclusion in the Cabinet.

Mr. A. SHAW

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the unanimous feeling of the Scottish Members, both in this Parliament and in the last Parliament, on this subject, and will he be prepared to receive representations on the subject?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I was not aware of that. I thought they wanted the status raised in the ordinary way. If they desire to make representations that they desire a change made in name, I shall be glad to hear them.

Mr. JAMESON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is great dissatisfaction in Scotland about the status and salary of this Minister, and the fact that the Minister who governs in Scotland in fourteen different Departments of Government has got an inferior status and is paid the same rate as a County Court judge?

Mr. WALLACE

In considering this matter, will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that a Scotsman attaches equal importance to increased status as he does to any extra remuneration?

Mr. BONARLAW

I am not suite sure that has been my universal experience of Scotsmen, but, as I said, I do not think the status is in any doubt; it certainly is not in this House.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Can the right hon. Gentleman explain why the Member for Dunfermline Burghs suggests that the Minister, as indicated here, should get an Irishman's rise?