§ 7. Mr. McGOVERNasked the Secretary of State for Scotland the reason for the delay in bringing to trial Mr. Thomas Shankland, who was charged with fraud at Stirling; and if he is aware that he was arrested in London on 9th January, 1933, and imprisoned until his trial on 5th May?
§ Mr. SKELTONMy right hon. Friend the Lord Advocate has asked me to reply 903 on his behalf. The man referred to was brought to trial within the period allowed by statute. There was no unnecessary delay. The accused pleaded guilty and the sentence of nine months' imprisonment was made to run from 12th January, 1933, which was the date of his first appearance before the sheriff and three days after arrest.
§ Mr. McGOVERNCan the hon. Gentleman tell me what is the largest number of days that can elapse before a man must be brought to trial? Is it not 110, and was this man not 120 days in prison before being brought to trial?
§ Mr. SKELTONI should not like to commit myself to an answer on that point without consulting the authorities, but I have satisfied myself that the statutory time was not exceeded.