HC Deb 07 July 1936 vol 314 cc996-7
7. Mr. HARDIE

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when the last census was called for as provided by Section 31 of the Education (Scotland) Act, 1872; and whether a new census is to be called at an early date?

Sir G. COLLINS

The information referred to in Section 31 of the Act of 1872 is submitted annually to the Department and is published in their annual report or in their statistical lists.

Mr. HARDIE

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that he has sufficiently interested his Department in the question of this census, and is he aware of the numbers that cannot be traced in various districts of Scotland to-day?

Sir G. COLLINS

I must leave that to the Department concerned.

Mr. HARDIE

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think the Department could find out? Will he not let them get on with the work?

Sir G. COLLINS

The departments are under my orders, and I could not delegate my authority.

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