§ 24. Mr. Westwoodasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that no reference is made in the memorandum attached to the Financial Resolution on Agriculture, nor yet in the proposals submitted by letter of date 29th May, 1937, to Scottish local authorities, as to where the central body is to be located to deal with Scottish veterinary services; and will he now state whether that central body will be located in Edinburgh or London?
§ 28. Mr. Cassellsasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, in the light of the circular issued by the National Farmers' Union of Scotland on 14th June, 1937, he is prepared to inaugurate a central veterinary service in order to create greater uniformity in the application of the services at present administered by local authorities in the treatment of diseases now prevalent amongst sheep, poultry and horses?
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Elliot)If the hon. Members will look at paragraph (36) of the memorandum to which they refer they will see that it is proposed that all public veterinary services relating to animal diseases should be centralised under the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries.
§ Mr. WestwoodWere these points discussed with the local authorities when the proposals were submitted for their consideration?
§ Mr. ElliotThey have been discussed with the local authorities, but I am not sure on what occasion.
§ Mr. WestwoodIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the representatives of the local authorities in London to-day are complaining about the haste in pursuing this Resolution and not carrying through necessary negotiations with the local authorities?
§ Mr. ElliotI think that is another point. They have certainly been informed of the intentions of the Government.