§ 14. Sir W. Anstruther-Grayasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he proposes to introduce legislation to bring the title, status and remuneration of Scotland's sheriffs-substitute into line with the standards prevailing in English county courts since the County Courts Bill of 1958.
§ Mr. N. MacphersonThe County Courts Bill is a purely consolidating Measure which makes no change in the law in England, and no changes are contemplated in Scotland.
§ Sir W. Anstruther-GrayYes, Sir, that is so; but will my hon. Friend bear in mind that the position in Scotland is different, in that the title of sheriff-substitute is derogatory for persons holding important, permanent positions? Furthermore, the remuneration of Scottish sheriffs-substitute is inadequate for people doing that very responsible work.
§ Mr. MacphersonIf the title is derogatory it has been so for over 200 years. I should have thought it would have been hallowed by use. In reply to the second part of the supplementary question, I would point out that the salaries of county court judges were fixed in April, 1957, and the salaries of sheriffs-substitute were fixed at the same time after careful consideration. I am afraid that I can hold out no prospects to my hon. and gallant Friend of an early review.