§ Mrs. Margaret EwingTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what research has been carried out into warrant sales since the research report from the Scottish Law Commission published in October 1980;
(2) whether he has instructed any research to be undertaken as to the impact of (a) the Bankruptcy (Scotland) Act 1985 and (b) the Debtors Scotland Act 1987 upon the use of warrant sales; and if he will make a statement;
(3) if he will commission further research into the characteristics of warrant sales, with particular reference to the number of warrant sales per annum, the total principal sums, expenses and sums realised, pursuer groups, amounts of principal sums, and the proportions of expenses and principal sums covered by sale proceeds distinguishing between personal warrant sales and commercial warrant sales.
§ Lord James Douglas-Hamilton[holding answer 10 July 1990]: My right hon. and learned Friend the Lord Advocate keeps under review the need for and the optimum timing of the commissioning of research into the law of diligence. To this end, the operation of the new diligence legislation is being monitored, including the collection of statistical information on the number of poindings and warrant sales. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry has policy responsibility for the Bankruptcy (Scotland) Act 1985.