Mr. McKieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the Scottish Office is satisfied that the town clerk of Dalbeattie has done everything possible to eliminate the position of the defalcations in the burgh accounts by a cashier engaged for the purpose; and whether the Scottish Office have indicated that they are of the opinion that no blame is attributable to the town clerk in regard to these matters?
Mr. WedderburnAs regards the first part of the question the defalcations referred to were the subject of full investigation by the criminal authorities. As regards the second part the town 1747W council are responsible for the conduct of the business of the burgh and I am informed that they have the whole position under consideration.