HC Deb 01 June 1911 vol 26 cc1213-4
Mr. ARNOLD WARD

asked whether the Government, before they give facilities for the full consideration of a Women's Enfranchisement Bill in this House, will afford an opportunity to the electors to give a verdict on this issue?

The PRIME MINISTER

No, Sir, I am not able to give any such assurance.

Mr. A. WARD

Will the Government, in determining what facilities should be granted for this Bill, have regard to that principle of supremacy of the House of Commons which finds such fervent expression in the Parliament Bill?

The PRIME MINISTER

That does not arise in the least out of the question.

Mr. A. WARD

Is it the intention of the Government to connive at the disposal by Parliament of a first-class constitutional question which has never been before the country?

The PRIME MINISTER

It is the intention of the Government to fulfil the pledge which I gave before the last General Election.

Lord HUGH CECIL

Does the right hon. Gentleman think himself bound to fulfil the pledges which were given by the Chief Secretary for Ireland and the Secretary of State for War?

The PRIME MINISTER

That does not arise.