§ 17. Mr. Rankinasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if, in view of the remarks of Sheriff Lockhart at Wigtown on 25th June last, he will issue instructions as to the dress to be worn by people who are summoned to appear in court.
§ Mr. MaclayI have no powers to issue instructions on this matter.
§ Mr. RankinIs the Secretary of State aware that when a Mr. Gordon Meek, of Newton Stewart, appeared at the court presided over by this sheriff, he appeared in dungarees and was told that he was improperly dressed, and that if he dared to come to that court again in such a dress he would be sent home to dress properly? What is improper about a suit of dungarees? Is it not just as distinguished a badge of office as a sheriff's gown, and would the Secretary of State not consider urging sheriffs to wear dungarees in order to feel more like workmen?
§ Mr. MaclayAs I said, I have no power, but it is reasonable to think that anyone who appears in court may be expected, out of respect for the court, to be properly dressed. What constitutes proper dress will depend on the circumstances of the person.
§ Mr. RankinThis is making it worse and worse. Am I to understand that the Secretary of State, instead of uttering a word of warning to this individual, is now supporting his attitude?
§ Mr. MaclayNo, Sir. I made no comments on this case, but I think the House will agree that respect for the dignity of the courts is essential.
§ Mr. WoodburnSince the sheriff him self goes to the court in his working clothes, what is the objection to a man appearing before him in his working clothes?
§ Mr. MaclayThese matters must always be relative to the conditions of the individuals concerned.