HC Deb 14 May 1908 vol 188 cc1352-3
Mr. EVELYN CECIL (Aston Manor)

I beg to ask the Prime Minister whether he is prepared to propose legislation to avoid the necessity of any of His Majesty's Ministers seeking re-election on appointment to office.

Mr. ASQUITH

I can only repeat the Answer which I gave to my hon. friend the Member for Rotherham the other day—namely, that in my opinion the necessity for seeking reelection is out of date, and not in accordance with public interest or convenience, but that its removal would require legislation for which in the pressure of more urgent matter, there is not at present room.

MR. R. DUNCAN (Lanarkshire, Govan)

Is it not sometimes value to have the public verdict as to the fitness of a Minister for his office?

MR. ASQUIH

That is a matter of opinion.