47. Mr. F. HALL (Dulwich)asked the Prime Minister whether he will be willing to allot time for discussion of payment of Members on the Vote for the purpose if it can be proved that a considerable number of Members desire it?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI have nothing to add to the reply which my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer gave to the hon. Member for Salisbury on this subject on Tuesday last.
Mr. F. HALLHas not the right hon. Gentleman stated repeatedly that he is willing to have a discussion in the event of both sides wishing it? Will not the right hon. Gentleman, in the circumstances, say that, if a considerable number of Members desire it he will agree?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am only following the usual course.
§ Mr. KINGIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that various Members of the Opposition are finding it very hard to reconcile their practice with their professions outside the House?
§ Mr. GEORGE FABERWhat is the usual course?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat communication should pass through the ordinary channels.
§ 48. Colonel BURNasked the Prime Minister when the Whitsuntide holiday will commence and on what date the House will reassemble; and whether, in view of the opinions expressed publicly and in private, he can see his way to giving a day for discussing the payment of Members of this House?
§ The PRIME MINISTERAs regards the first part of the question, I will make a statement at the end of Questions. As regards the latter part, I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to what I have recently said on the subject.
§ Colonel BURNDoes the right hon. Gentleman intend to take this Vote, which has never been sanctioned by the people of the country, automatically and without discussion?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am most anxious for it to be discussed.
§ Sir WILLIAM BYLESWill the right hon. Gentleman ascertain what his supporters desire in this matter?
§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSIs not the delay in giving a date for the discussion due to a reluctance to it on the part of the right hon. Gentleman's supporters?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNot the least. If a representation is made to me in the ordinary way by those who represent the Opposition, I will take care that the very first opportunity is given.