§ 56. Mr. JOHNSTONasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if any, and, if so, what, public bodies in Scotland have made representations to him recommending the transfer of the functions of the parish councils and a large proportion of the functions of burghs with a population under 20,000 to the county councils?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Sir John Gilmour)No such representation has been made to me by any public body in Scotland, but I have kept in view recommendations by the Royal Commission on the Poor Laws, by Committees and other advisory bodies.
§ Mr. JOHNSTONAre we to understand that these proposals for the destruction of local government in Scotland are being made without representations to the Government from any single public body in Scotland?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThe hon. Member must understand that they are being made following the recommendation of a special body appointed to inquire into the subject.
§ Mr. JOHNSTONIs it not a fact that no single public body in Scotland has asked for it?
§ Mr. BUCHANANIs it the intention of the right hon. Gentleman, during the 1378 Recess, to consult the public authorities in Scotland with regard to this question?
§ Sir J. GILMOURYes. I have already announced publicly that I will do so.
§ Mr. SHINWELLIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that important public bodies in Scotland have already strongly protested against these proposals?
§ Mr. SPEAKERMr. Johnston.
§ Mr. KIRKWOOD rose——
§ Mr. SPEAKERI have already called the next question.