§ 47. Mr. WATTasked of how many members the Defence Committee is composed; whether this is a fixed or a variable number at the option of the Prime Minister of the day; whether any representation on it is at present given or offered to any of the Oversea Dominions; and, if so, to which of them; and whether representation on the Committee will entail residence in this country of the representatives of the Dominions?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe number of Members of this Committee for the time being depends on the determination of the Prime Minister. Representation has been 201 offered to the Oversea, Dominions (see Dispatch, 10th December, 1912). Colonel Allen, Minister of Defence of New Zealand, is at present attending the meetings of the Committee. None of the Dominions have yet appointed a permanent representative, so that the last part of the question has not arisen.
§ Mr. WATTIs it the intention of the Government to extend representation to the Oversea Dominions in this country after Home Rule all round has been granted?
§ The PRIME MINISTERWe had better wait and see what the future brings.
§ Mr. SWIFT MacNEILLHaving regard to the fact that members of the Defence Committee do not necessarily come within the purview of Parliamentary control, and that this Committee may be seized of information which is withheld from Parliament, might not the approval of Parliament be given to the new members who are not members of the Ministry?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo, Sir. The whole question can be raised on my salary.