§ 18. Dr. DRUMMOND SHIELSasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that serious complaint is being made by householders at Smailholm, Kelso, that burials are now taking place in a hitherto unused portion of the local churchyard which is close to dwelling-houses; that, owing to the comparative levels of the churchyard and the houses, there is a danger to health if this practice is continued; and if, in view of the refusal of the parish council to reconsider this matter, the Department of Health will take whatever steps are necessary or desirable in the interests of public health?
§ Sir J. GILMOURIn connection with a complaint made in 1927, the Medical Officer of Health for Kelso District advised that no nuisance within the meaning 967 of the Public Health Act then existed at the Smailholm Burial Ground, and the Scottish Board of Health could therefore find no reason to interfere with the decision of the parish council to use the ground in question for burials. No subsequent complain has been received, but I am having further inquiries made and shall communicate with the hon. Member.