§ 69. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that the banknotes which only certain Scottish banks have authority to issue have been forged and put into circulation by unauthorised persons; and what steps he has taken and plans to take to stop such forgeries, to penalise the forgers, to protect persons damaged by such forgeries and to compensate them for loss sustained thereby.
§ Mr. RossI am aware that forged banknotes are in circulation and I understand that proceedings have been started against persons who are alleged to have uttered them. I am not aware that any changes in the law are necessary in respect of offences of this nature. The police and public prosecutors investigate all cases brought to their attention with a view to prosecution.