§ Mr. BARNESasked the Secretary for Scotland if his attention has been directed to the refusal of certain local authorities in Scotland to give effect to the provision for exemption of poor persons from payment of burgh rates; and if he can take any steps in the matter?
Mr. McKINNON WOODI am aware that local authorities have taken different views as to the practicability of exemptions under the new conditions introduced by the House-letting Act. I have expressed the view, both in this House and in correspondence, that exemptions are practicable; but I have no power either to interpret the Act with binding authority or to direct how it is to be carried into effect.