HC Deb 10 November 1976 vol 919 cc409-10
45. Mr. Canavan

asked the Lord Advocate when he next plans to make an official visit to the courts in Stirlingshire.

The Lord Advocate

I have no plans at present to visit the courts in Stirling District.

Mr. Canavan

Does my right hon. and learned Friend agree that part of the purpose of the courts in Stirlingshire is to protect the good people of Stirlingshire from some of the rogues who live there? If the Department of Trade grants my request for a Government inquiry into the affairs of Scottish and Universal Investments, and if that inquiry reveals evidence of fraud or any other criminal activities, will my right hon. and learned Friend see that those responsible are prosecuted, whether they are in castles in Stirlingshire or in accountants' offices in Glasgow or anywhere else?

The Lord Advocate

It would be wrong for me to comment on the particular case raised by my hon. Friend but if any alleged criminal offences are reported to my Department they will be fully investigated.

Mr. MacCormick

Does the Lord Advocate know of the disgraceful attempts being made at present to remove the jurisdiction for parliamentary elections from the sheriff courts and place them with unnamed local authorities? What is he doing about that?

The Lord Advocate

That is not a proper question for me.