§ 45. Mr. C. BATHURSTasked the Prime Minister whether he has yet consulted with the President of the Board of Agriculture in reference to the appointment of a Royal Commission, on the lines of the United States Country Life Commission, to inquire into the present position of British agriculture and of those interested, occupied, and employed therein; and, if so, whether he will state the results of such consultation?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Asquith)I have consulted with my right hon. Friend, and we both think that there is not sufficient ground for appointing a Royal Commission on the lines of the United States Country Life Commission, which was specially intended to bring about better social, sanitary, and economic conditions on American farms. So far as our information goes, nothing has been done in consequence of the Report of the American Commission.
§ Mr. C. BATHURSTCan the right hon. Gentleman hold out any prospect of a public investigation by a non-partisan tribunal in these matters?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat opens a, wider question. Perhaps the hon. Member will give me notice.