58. Mr. Johnstonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the apprehension that exists in Scotland among the town and county councillors who are tenants of municipally-owned dwelling-houses as a result of the decision given in the Aberdeen sheriff court that any such councillor who has taken part in a decision relating to any municipal housing matter is in contravention of Section 107 of the Housing Act of 1925 and is liable to be fined; and what steps, if any, he proposes to take in the matter?
59. Mr. West woodasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he proposes to take any steps to ensure that town and county councillors who are members of co-operative societies registered under the Industrial and Provident Societies Acts will not be prejudiced in comparison with their colleagues who are shareholders in companies incorporated under the Companies Acts?
§ Mr. ColvilleI am aware of the difficulties referred to, and I have the position under review.
Mr. JohnstonIn view of the urgency of this matter, will the right hon. Gentleman give the House indication as to when, he proposes to take any steps to deal with it? Is he aware that a town councillor has already been fined in the sheriff's court for supportinga resolution which actually involved an increase in his own rent?
§ Mr. ColvilleI appreciate that the question is one of considerable urgency, and I hope to be able to make a statement about it at an early date.