§ 48. Mr. JAMES HOPEasked the Prime Minister whether he is prepared to issue a Treasury Minute embodying the principles laid down by himself last year with regard to investment and speculation by the holders of public office?
§ The PRIME MINISTERIn my statement of 19th June, 1913, to which the hon. Member refers, I expressed doubt as to whether it was practicable to lay down a code of rules of conduct for Ministers and persons in official positions with regard to these matters, although I was able to lay down certain principles governing typical cases. I think it is sufficient that I should now reaffirm those principles for the guidance of the Departments, and I see no necessity for, or advantage in, issuing a Treasury Minute on the subject.
§ Mr. JAMES HOPEMay I take it that the Government are prepared to take no steps whatever to avert a repetition of the scandals in which three of their members were involved last year?