HC Deb 19 July 1938 vol 338 cc1982-3
41. Mr. Johnston

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that, as part of the Sir Thomas Urquhart memorial celebrations at Cromarty, the Provost is to be presented with a chain of office, and that the Lord Lyon King of Arms has intimated a claim of £19 10s. as his feudal fees for permitting the display of a coat of arms on the municipal chain; and, in view of the irritation caused by these feudal dues and charges by the Lord Lyon's office, what steps he proposes to take to have them commuted or abandoned?

Mr. Colville

I understand that there is a proposal to present the Provost of Cromarty with a chain of office and badge, and that in connection with this proposal Lyon King of Arms, in whom jurisdiction in the matter of recording arms is vested by Statute, was recently asked what were the proper arms and motto of the burgh, and what fee was payable for the use of the arms. He replied that the burgh had not recorded its arms, and that the fee for doing so would amount to about £19 10s.

Mr. Johnston

Can the right hon. Gentleman take no steps in the matter of the costs, referred to in the last part of the question?

Mr. Colville

I am not sure that it would be in accordance with Scottish sentiment to curtail the powers of Lyon in the matter.

Mr. Macquisten

It is the Lyon's share.

Mr. Johnston

Does the right hon. Gentleman really consider that this farce should be continued.

Captain Alan Graham

In view of the fact that Scottish heraldry is well known to be the purest in Europe, may I express the hope that my right hon. Friend will do nothing to impair it?