HC Deb 10 November 1953 vol 520 cc760-1
20. Mr. Grimond

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will take steps to increase the salaries of sheriffs-substitute.

Mr. J. Stuart

The salaries of all sheriffs-substitute were increased by £500 per annum with effect from July, 1951. No further increase is contemplated at the present time.

Mr. Grimond

Is it not the case that these judges have far wider jurisdiction than the county court judges in England and are paid less than those judges are? If any class of judge deserve an increase in salary, surely it is this class in Scotland, and will the Secretary of State recommend them to his right hon. Friend?

Mr. Stuart

I shall bear in mind what the hon. Member says.

Mr. Malcolm MacPherson

Is the Minister aware that these appointments are made nearly always from membership of the Scottish Bar; that membership of the Scottish Bar requires as a condition of admission not merely legal qualifications but the making of a cash payment amounting to more than £450; and is he aware of the strong objection in principle to increased expenditure of public money where there is such a high financial barrier to entering?

Mr. Stuart

I shall take all these matters into consideration.

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