§ 83. Mr. THORNEasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps are being taken to remedy and obviate the delay in the hearing of cases, in particular those under the Workmen's Compensation Act, in the sheriff court of Lanarkshire in Glasgow?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Lieut.-Colonel Colville)My right hon. Friend has been in consultation with the Lord Advocate and the Sheriff on the subject as stated in reply to a question by the hon. Member on 19th February. A report has now been received from the Sheriff, and careful consideration is being given to the steps necessary to meet the existing difficulties.
§ Mr. G. HARDIEIs it not a fact that the whole system at present which causes this delay in the courts is because there is no possibility of the courts reaching a decision in a reasonable time? Does the hon. and gallant Gentleman not think that some reorganisation is needed or, if necessary, a new Act of Parliament to deal with the matter?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLENo, Sir. The question of delay is under review and the necessary steps are under consideration.
§ Mr. BUCHANANIs the Minister aware that the sheriff courts in Glasgow and Lanarkshire are glutted with cases of motoring and similar offences, and will he take steps to review the whole question of procedure in the courts?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEA review is taking place, and if the hon. Member will consult the answer to which I have referred he will see that the question of motoring offences enters into it.