HC Deb 01 March 1955 vol 537 cc1878-9
45. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Prime Minister if, in view of the increasing importance of hon. Members being advised on matters of law relating to Scotland, he will now consider appointing as Solicitor-General for Scotland a Member of the House of Commons.

The Prime Minister (Sir Winston Churchill)

I would refer the hon. Member to the replies which I gave to Questions in similar terms which he asked on 12th May, 1953, and 23rd February, 1954. It is becoming an annual event.

Mr. Hughes

Is the Prime Minister aware that things id the Scottish Department have been getting steadily worse, that an important Order had to be withdrawn at the last moment when it was declared by Mr. Speaker to be out of order because it was improperly framed, that the Lord Advocate is grossly overworked, and that the two previous holders of that office have been overworked and have sought refuge on the Bench? Does the right hon. Gentleman not think it time we got the legal position in Scotland rectified?

The Prime Minister

As it is St. David's day, I might almost suggest to the hon. Member that if he is very dissatisfied with conditions in Scotland he might return to Wales.

Mr. Hughes

Is the Prime Minister aware that if I return to Wales South Ayrshire is too well educated politically ever to return a Tory Member of Parliament?