HC Deb 27 February 1911 vol 22 cc27-8
Mr. HARRY LAWSON

asked the Prime Minister whether, having regard to the importance of the constitutional issue now before the House, he will reconsider the question of giving some information to Parliament on the points of common agreement reached by the Constitutional Conference of last year?

The PRIME MINISTER

The decision that there should be no public disclosure of the proceedings at the Conference was concurred in by all its members. I have no power, even if I had the disposition—which I have not—to go back upon that decision.

Mr. HARRY LAWSON

May I ask the Prime Minister whether the whole of the results of this Conference, both of agreement and of difference, are to be buried until their publication is only of historical interest; and, if so, whether that is treating Parliament with proper respect?

The PRIME MINISTER

I have nothing to add to the answer I have already given.

Mr. JAMES HOPE

Would it not be competent for the members of the Conference to reconsider their decision?