HC Deb 10 June 1912 vol 39 cc501-2
48. Mr. GODFREY LOCKER-LAMPSON

asked whether, in view of the memorial signed by a large number of Members of this House, he will now publish that portion of the evidence given before the Committee on Irish Finance in respect of which no pledge of secrecy was made or is now insisted upon?

The PRIME MINISTER

The number of signatures to the memorial is not sufficient to show that the House as a whole desires the evidence to be published, and I stated that I should require proof that there was such a general desire before publication took place.

Mr. GEORGE LLOYD

Can the right hon. Gentleman say how many signatures he would require?

The PRIME MINISTER

Enough to show the signatures were sufficient, and that it was the general desire of the House.

Mr. LLOYD

Can the right hon. Gentleman state what is his objection to giving the information?

The PRIME MINISTER

I think I have stated it several times. It is very undesirable it should be discussed piecemeal.

Mr. LLOYD

Would the right hon. Gentleman give the House the whole information, then?

The PRIME MINISTER

No, Sir; because a large part of it was confidential.