asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the algebraical equations which determine the mathematical curves which define the density factor in connection with the formula under the Local Government (Scotland) Bill?

The density factor is one of several to which effect is given in the formula, and it may be convenient to give the formula in full. I propose to do this in the OFFICIAL REPORT as it is somewhat long.

rose—

I do not know why the right hon. Gentleman replied to that question. It being after 3.45, I did not call the hon. Member for the Camlachie Divison (Mr. Stephen) to put the question which he has down.

Following is the formula:

Let p=the population of a county in the standard year, as estimated by the Registrar-General for Scotland.

Let c=50 or the number of children under five years of age per 1,000 of the population, whichever is the greater.

Let a=12.5 or the rateable value in £ per head of the population, according to the valuation list in force in the standard year, whichever is the less.

Let u=1.5 or the percentage of unemployed men calculated as explained in Cmd. 3135, whichever is the greater.

Let m=the number of persons per mile of public road.

Then (1) if m is greater than or equal to 100, the weighted population is:

p(1+c-50/50+12.5-a/12.5)

(1+u-1.5/10+50/m)

(2) If m is less than 100, the weighted population is:

p(1+c-50/50+12.5-a/12.5)

(1+u-1.5/10+200-m/200)

In the case of the large burghs, the last term in the second bracket is always taken as zero, as there is no weighting for low density of population in these cases.