§ 83. Sir J. LONSDALEasked the Prime Minister if he is aware that the Prime Minister of New Zealand has publicly stated his view that the time has come for the establishment of an Imperial Council; if any expressions of opinion to a similar effect have been received from responsible statesmen in other Dominions; and if he has any announcement to make on the subject?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The Prime Minister and I have discussed the question with regard to the general principle involved and as to the best method of procedure, not only with Mr. Massey, but with the Prime Ministers of Canada and Australia, but it is not possible to make any statement on the subject.
Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTTMay I ask if there is any answer to the middle part of the question—whether any expressions of opinion to a similar effect have been received from responsible statesmen in other Dominions?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWNo official expressions of opinion have been received.
§ Mr. SCANLANIs it possible to have this question decided until the relation of this country and Ireland is decided?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe relation of this country to Ireland has taken a long time. I would not suggest that in itself should prevent our considering the other.
§ Commander WEDGWOODWill the right hon. Gentleman see that on any such Imperial Council a representative of India is included?