§ 18. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what were the facts about rents in Dumfriesshire presented to him by the recent deputation from tenants whose rents have recently been increased by the county council; and what was the nature of the reply he gave to them.
§ Mr. J. N. BrowneThe deputations of tenants from Dumfriesshire recently received by my right hon. Friend's Department represented that the rent scheme which the county council proposes to apply from 16th May will lead to hardship and will involve various anomalies. They were informed that the matter is entirely one for the county council and that their representations would be conveyed to the council, as has since been done.
§ Mr. HughesCan the Minister explain why, although there are seven Scottish Ministers, not one of them was there to receive the deputation? Is he also aware that a great deal of interest is attached to this matter throughout Scotland? It means higher rents throughout the whole of Scotland if this example is followed, and was that case submitted to the council with any representations?
§ Mr. BrowneThe reception of the deputation by an officer of my right hon. Friend's Department is in accordance with normal practice. I would remind the hon. Gentleman that Parliament has expressly given the local authorities the responsibility of fixing the rents of their houses, and the matter is not one in which my right hon. Friend can intervene.