HC Deb 06 December 1911 vol 32 c1401
Mr. RAMSAY MACDONALD

asked the Prime Minister if he has considered whether it is possible to create some means, by a committee or otherwise, for keeping Parliament in closer touch with foreign affairs; and whether, in view of the existence of a feeling that foreign affairs are becoming more and more the subjects of secret settlement, he will at least set up a committee of inquiry to report on the whole subject?

The PRIME MINISTER

The Government have not as yet seen any proposal in this direction which seems to them practicable or consistent with the maintenance of the undivided responsibility of the Executive.

Mr. RAMSAY MACDONALD

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer the latter part of my question?

The PRIME MINISTER

I thought I had answered by implication. Until we see some proposal to be submitted to the committee I do not see that there would be any great advantage in setting it up.