HC Deb 23 July 1912 vol 41 c974
49. Mr. GODFREY LOCKER-LAMPSON

asked the Prime Minister what is the total number of signatures of Members of this House, exclusive of duplicates, which he has received to the two memorials asking him to approach those witnesses who gave evidence before the Committee on Irish Finance for their consent to the publication of that portion of the evidence in respect of which no pledge of secrecy was made or is now insisted upon?

Mr. BIRRELL

The signatures attached to the two memorials were 277.

Mr. G. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Chancellor of the Exchequer himself stated that if any body of Members of this House desired the evidence to be published it would be done?

Mr. BIRRELL

I am answering on behalf of my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister. Whether he knows what the Chancellor of the Exchequer said I do not know.

Earl WINTERTON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the answer was that it would be done if any considerable number of Members desired it? Does he think 277 Members of both sides out of 670 are a considerable number? Will he put the point to the Prime Minister?

Mr. BIRRELL

I will ask my right hon. Friend whether he considers that number considerable.