HC Deb 10 February 1927 vol 202 cc291-2
67. Mr. T. KENNEDY

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland, if he has considered the position of parish councils in Scotland arising out of the judgment of Lord Constable in the case of David Colville and Sons, Limited, and others the Parish Council of Dalziel, regarding relief to miners' dependants; and what action he proposes to take in view of the instructions issued by the Scottish Board of Health on 6th May last?

The SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Sir John Gilmour)

As already announced, the Government intend to deal with this matter by legislation. I must ask the hon. Member to Await the introduction of the Bill for information as to the details of the Government's proposals.

Mr. KENNEDY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Scottish Board of Health had no statutory sanction for the instructions issued on 6th May and, in that case, has he decided that the financial burden arising out of these instructions are not to be borne by the local authorities?

Sir J. GILMOUR

All the matters ate fully under my consideration and I must ask the hon. Gentleman to wait until he sees the Bill.

Mr. MACLEAN

Is it the intention of the Government to make the proposed Bill retrospective in its operation?

Sir J. GILIVIOUR

Certainly, but I must ask the hon. Member to wait until he sees the Bill.