HC Deb 24 May 1928 vol 217 c2065
Mr. MACPHERSON

I apologise for not giving notice of this question, but I should like to ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when it is proposed to announce the names of the Select Committee on Western Highlands transport, and what are the terms of reference; and will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that those terms should not be limited to the narrow question of the MacBrayne contract, but should extend to the general question?

The SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Sir John Gilmour)

I understand that the terms of reference and the names of the Committee proposed will be on the Paper when the House reassembles.

Mr. MACPHERSON

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the inadvisability of limiting the terms of reference to the MacBrayne contract and see to it that they cover the whole question of the Western Highlands transport?

Sir J. GILMOUR

As I understand the position, the House came to a certain Resolution, and the Amendment which was accepted would be the measure of the remit to the Committee, but I do not anticipate that there will be any hampering of their work.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

May I emphasise the request that the terms of reference should not exclude alternative schemes? It may be possible that much better terms may be got, and will the terms be broad enough for other proposals to be put up?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I understand that the terms will be on the Paper on 6th June, and the House will then have an opportunity of judging for itself.