§ 42. Mr. THOMAS RAMSAYasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if the post of secretary to the Department of Agriculture is about to become vacant; if he will see that the position is filled by the appointment of a Scotsman who has a knowledge of Highland problems and land settlement needs and methods; and, if not already conversant with the problem of roadless islands and footpath areas in the Outer Hebrides, will he ensure that the new secretary shall acquire a competent knowledge as soon as possible?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Mr. Skelton)My right hon. Friend much regrets that Sir Robert Greig, Secretary to the Department of Agriculture for Scotland, will shortly retire from the public service. The hon. Member may rest assured that my right hon. Friend will take all relevant factors into consideration in appointing a successor.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENIs the Under-Secretary not aware that Scots people are quite prepared to compete for any office on their own merits, independently of their nationality?