§ Mr. WEIRasked whether, having regard to the fact that the cottars of Valtos and Kneep, island of Lewis, some time since petitioned the proprietor of the island to break up the farm of Reef, in the parish of Uig, what decision has been arrived at; and whether the Congested Districts Board would be prepared to co-operate with the proprietor in the creation of new j holdings?
§ Mr. URE:After careful inquiry the Congested Districts Board were satisfied that the farm of Reef was unsuited for division into crofts, and the petitioners were informed accordingly.
§ Mr. WEIRasked the Lord Advocate, having regard to the fact that the Report of the Poor Law Commission (Scotland), which was issued in November last year, confirms the report of Dr. Dittmar, medical inspector for the Local Government Board for Scotland, in regard to the-grossly insanitary condition of the townships in the island of Lewis, would he state what action the Government proposes to take in the matter, especially bearing in mind that this question has been under the consideration of the Secretary for Scotland since 1906?
§ Mr. URE:I am unable at present to add anything to the terms of the reply given to my hon. Friend on 1st December last.
§ Mr. WEIRasked the Lord Advocate in view of the decision of the Stornoway 923W sheriff court and subsequent appeal, is he now in a position to state to what extent the proprietor of the island of Lewis has been relieved of the payment of rates for which he was formerly held to be liable; and will a like percentage of relief be secured to owners by purchase under the Congested Districts Board or otherwise?
§ Mr. URE:It is difficult to estimate the ultimate relief, but the immediate effect of the decision referred to was, I understand, to reduce the amount of rates payable by the proprietor for the year 1907–8 from £1,450 11s. 6d. to £839 16s. 2d. The deduction from rental for rating purposes will in future be applicable to ratepayers alike.