HC Deb 17 July 1924 vol 176 cc584-5
57. Lieut.-Colonel Sir J. GILMOUR

asked the Secretary for Scotland if he can now state what conclusion has been arrived at as a result of recent conversations with the local authorities and others in connection with the position of non-payment of rent in Clydebank?

The SECRETARY for SCOTLAND (Mr. Adamson)

I regret that my efforts to secure a settlement of the difficulties in Clydebank have so far proved unsuccessful, but the negotiations are not yet concluded, and I should prefer not to make any statement at the present moment.

Sir J. GILMOUR

Does the right hon. Gentleman not consider that this matter has been so long delayed that he ought to take some further action and to make some statement on the subject? Ought he not now to dissociate himself from the action of the Tenants' Association in advising the people to withhold their rent and rates?

Mr. ADAMSON

I have informed the hon. and gallant Gentleman in my reply that my negotiations are not yet concluded.

Captain BENN

Is it to be hoped that the action of the Government will be announced before the House rises?

Sir J. GILMOUR

Is not this a matter of really great importance, not solely to the local authorities, but to the other people in this district; and may I ask whether this is not the only district in Scotland where such a scandalous state of circumstances has arisen?

Mr. ADAMSON

Of course, I recognise that it is a matter of great importance and that is why I have dealt with it with so much patience.

Captain BENN

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether the action to be taken will be announced before the House rises?

Mr. ADAMSON

I cannot say.