§ 20. Mr. MACKENZIE LIVINGSTONEasked the Secretary for Scotland whether he is now prepared to appoint a carefully chosen commission to make a thorough and scientific investigation into the economic conditions of the Highland people, with special reference to the Islands, to explore every possibility for 182 improvement, and to report to this House?
The SECRETARY for SCOTLAND (Mr. Adamson)By my instructions, the Departments under my control have undertaken an examination of the (question of the economic conditions of the Highlands and Islands, and of possible means of improvement within their respective spheres. I have now under consideration the views of those Departments. In addition, other Departments whose administration extends over Great Britain are concerned and, pending discussions with them which are in progress, I cannot say whether the appointment of a Committee of Inquiry will ultimately be found necessary.
§ Mr. MACPHERSONDoes the right hon. Gentleman propose to appoint a Commission composed of men of knowledge and skill outside his own Department?
Mr. ADAMSONDiscussion is in progress with other Departments concerned, but I cannot say whether the decision will be in favour of the appointment of a Commission.
§ Mr. T. JOHNSTONHas the right hon. Gentleman already taken steps to secure the survey of agricultural land in Scotland, which he promised during the Debate on the Scottish Estimates?
§ Mr. LIVINGSTONEIs the right hon. Gentleman not perfectly aware that the Highland people no longer have any confidence in Government Departments?