HC Deb 05 July 1938 vol 338 cc167-8
23. Mr. Cassells

asked the Lord Advocate whether he is aware that no provision is made in the Solicitors Amendment (Scotland) Bill to deal with cases of unqualified persons dealing with legal business; and what steps is he prepared to take to remedy this defect?

The Solicitor-General for Scotland (Mr. James Reid)

The Solicitors Amendment (Scotland) Bill is a private Member's Bill, which has not yet received a Second Reading in this House, and it would not be possible for me to discuss its provisions in answer to a question. I would point out, however, that the case of unqualified persons engaging in legal business is dealt with in the Solicitors (Scotland) Act, 1933.

Mr. Cassells

Is the Solicitor-General aware that several complaints have been made to the Crown Office in this connection, but that, so far, the Crown Office has refused to raise a finger in any circumstances; and is he, accordingly, prepared to have investigation made into this problem?

The Solicitor-General for Scotland

If the hon. Member will inform me what type of offence he has in mind, I will certainly look further into it.

Mr. Buchanan

Will the Solicitor-General, before making any decision on this matter, take into consideration the fact that other issues are raised, and that there are certain problems on which it would be as well that solicitors got some legal training?