§ 3. Commander Galbraithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when it is proposed to introduce a Bill to implement the recommendations contained in the First Report of the Local Government and Public Health Consolidation (Scotland) Committee.
Mr. JohnstonThe Report and the draft Bill prepared by the Committee were both referred on publication to the three local authority associations for their consideration. The views of two of the Associations on many important points have recently been received and I hope to receive the views of the third Association very shortly. Some of these observations may require further and detailed discussion 1685 with the local authority representatives and I am therefore not at present in a position to make any statement as to legislation.
§ Commander GalbraithIs it the right hon. Gentleman's intention when the Bill is ready to refer it to the Scottish Grand Committee?
Mr. JohnstonI should not like to pledge myself off hand. The report is a most elaborate document as it stands, but I should think it would be highly desirable to have it discussed in the Scottish Grand Committee.