§ 24. Mr. D. Johnstonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has considered the First and Second Reports of the Law Reform Committee for Scotland; and whether it is his policy to introduce legislation to give effect to the recommendations in the Reports.
§ Mr. MaclayI am considering these Reports, but I am unable to say when legislation may be possible.
§ Mr. JohnstonSince it is almost two years since the Committee made its report, does the right hon. Gentleman mean to say that he has taken two years to consider it? Is the delay due to lack of consideration or to lack of permission from the Government to give adequate time for Scottish legislation?
§ Mr. MaclayI think the hon. and learned Gentleman is aware that there had to be consultations with a considerable number of bodies, namely, the Law Society of Scotland, the Faculty of Advocates, the Scottish Land Owners' Federation and the Property Owners' and Factors' Association. All those had to be consulted, and a great deal of thought had to be given to those matters. I am aware of the need for legislation, but I cannot give any promise of when it will be.
§ Mr. JohnstonAm I to understand that the delay is the fault of the four bodies to which the Minister has referred? Did they not give their observations some twelve months ago?
§ Mr. MaclayI have not got the date with me.
§ Mr. RossDoes this delay mean that the Secretary of State is waiting for an English law reform Bill in which to incorporate these Scottish reforms?