§ Mr. James Whiteasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, in the light of his consultations with interested parties, he has reached any conclusion as to the future responsibility for the conduct of parliamentary elections in Scotland.
§ Mr. MillanIn the light of consultations with the sheriffs principal, the political parties and the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities, the Government have reached the conclusion that responsibility for providing the necessary administrative machinery should be transferred to the local government service, the returning officer responsibility to be296W vested in the appropriate officer who acts as returning officer for regional and island councils elections. The Government intend to introduce the necessary legislation as soon as possible.