HC Deb 24 May 1927 vol 206 cc1811-2
14. Mr. JOHNSTON

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when the small landholders at Bayhartavagh, Glendale, South Uist, obtained occupation of their holdings; if he can give any reason for the delay in having them formally registered as small landholders by the Scottish Land Court; and whether he is aware of the legal disabilities in possession and improvements to which these men are subjected owing to this delay in registration?

Sir J. GILMOUR

On the farm of Glendale, of which Bayhartavagh forms part, 22 holders were offered entry at Martinmas, 1919, and of these 16 took occupation and secured registration in 1923, when the applications were heard by the Land Court following confirmation of the scheme. I understand that registration of the remaining six, who were not in residence, was refused. These cases came again before the Land Court in 1926 and registration was again refused, pending production of further information as to the men's ability to fulfil the obligations incumbent upon them as landholders. A further application for registration is, I am informed, about to be presented to the Court. I am not aware that the men have suffered any legal disabilities by delay in registration.