§ 51. Mr. RUPERT GWYNNEasked the Prime Minister, in view of the fact that it is the intention of the Government to shortly introduce a National Insurance Act Amendment Bill, whether, in the event of the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster being unable to obtain a seat in the immediate future, he will consider the desirability of meeting the exigencies of the case by himself representing the Insurance Commissioners in this House?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Asquith)Although this question is based on an hypothesis, I have no objection to saying that the reply is in the negative.
§ Mr. R. GWYNNEIs the proposal of the Chancellor of the Exchequer to introduce a Bill to amend the National Insurance Act a definite proposal?
§ The PRIME MINISTERYes; I think it is.
§ Mr. R. GWYNNEThen why say my suggestion is hypothetical?
§ The PRIME MINISTERAssuming the Bill has been introduced.
§ Mr. R. GWYNNEWill the right hon. Gentleman say who is to have charge of the Bill?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo; I cannot. I have answered the hon. Gentleman's question, although based on hypothesis, in the negative.