HC Deb 22 March 1911 vol 23 cc399-400
Mr. LEES SMITH

asked whether it is the intention of the Government to introduce a measure for the payment of Members and of official election expenses this year?

The PRIME MINISTER

Provision will be proposed this year for the payment of Members. We shall not be able to deal this Session with the question of election expenses.

Mr. ASHLEY

Will the right hon. Gentleman say how much we shall get?

Mr. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAIN

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the proposal will be made in the form of a Bill, or merely by a Vote on the Estimates?

The PRIME MINISTER

I think we had better wait. In all probability when my right hon. Friend introduces his Budget we will be in a position to know.

Lord HUGH CECIL

Will the Bill be within the meaning of a "Money Bill" or not?

The PRIME MINISTER

I did not say that there would be any Bill at all.

Mr. LONSDALE

Is it the intention to include the payment of Members from Ireland?

The PRIME MINISTER

That will be disclosed in due time.