HC Deb 05 July 1938 vol 338 cc166-7
19. Mr. Johnston

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is now in a position to make a statement with reference to the Government's intentions to proceed with legislation on the lines recommended in the Gilmour Committee's Report on the reorganisation of Scottish offices?

Mr. Colville

I am not yet in a position to make a statement on this subject, but, as stated in reply to a question by my hon. Friend the Member for East Fife (Mr. Henderson Stewart) on 14th June, I hope to be able to do so before the end of the Session.

Mr. Mathers

Has not the right hon. Gentleman been making public statements on this matter; and is it his intention to have legislation passed through this House before this time next year, in order that, when the new offices are opened in Edinburgh, he may be able to carry through the necessary rearrangement?

Mr. Colville

I am bearing those considerations in mind. Perhaps the hon. Member will await my statement.

Mr. Davidson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that all the legislation involved by the Gilmour Report could be put into a very short Bill?