HC Deb 26 June 1905 vol 148 c87
MR. CATHCART WASON (Orkney and Shetland)

I beg to ask the First Lord of the Treasury if the terms of the reference will be so drawn that the Commission to be appointed to inquire into the sale and purchase of stores in South Africa will also be empowered to inquire into the conduct of persons employed in the work of repatriation and land settlement.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I do not think the extension of the reference the hon. Member desires is asked for by any section of public opinion. To so extend it would materially add to the labours of the Commission, and I do not recommend such an alteration.

DR. MACNAMARA

Will the right hon. Gentleman undertake there shall be an inquiry into the proceedings of the Repatriation Commission?

MR. PIRIE (Aberdeen, N.)

If information comes out in the course of the present inquiry making investigation into this matter necessary, will the Commission have the power to inquire?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

The hon. Member may rest assured that if the Commissioners make any request for an extension of the scope of their inquiry that will be acceded to.