HC Deb 12 December 1912 vol 45 cc773-4
Mr. BONAR LAW

May I ask the Prime Minister a question of which I have given him private notice: if his attention has been called to recent criticisms, not only in India, but at home, of the financial management by the India Office particularly in regard to recent purchases of silver, and the lending of cash balances, and if he can see his way to appoint a Select Committee to inquire into the subject?

The PRIME MINISTER

I only got the right hon. Gentleman's notice a very short time ago, but I may say that my attention has been called to these matters. The India Office is not only willing, but anxious for the fullest possible inquiry into all the points that have been raised. I do not think that it would be desirable at this stage of the Session, particularly in view of the labours imposed upon Members of the House, to appoint a Select Committee. Indeed, I doubt whether a Select Committee could properly be constituted, which would command general confidence, and would undertake an inquiry in what remains of the present Session, but I will consider the suggestion, and also the possibility of some other form of inquiry which would be even more satisfactory to the public at large.

Mr. BONAR LAW

If the right hon. Gentleman is not able to appoint some such Committee, would he take an opportunity to have the matter explained by the Government and discussed in this House, when we shall be able to judge whether an inquiry is necessary or not?

The PRIME MINISTER

Perhaps such an opportunity might be afforded on the Motion for the Adjournment for the holidays next week.

Mr. BONAR LAW

May I suggest to the right hon. Gentleman that really is not adequate. Does he not think, in the interest of the public service, and even in the interest of the Government themselves, that an opportunity should be taken to explain a transaction which is at least unusual?

The PRIME MINISTER

I cannot accept for a moment the suggestion that there is anything unusual. On the contrary, in all essentials the transaction, as far as I am aware, has been in strict conformity with the practice of the present and previous administration.