77. Sir H. DALZIELasked the Prime Minister whether, if he is satisfied that there is a general desire in the House on the subject, he will grant a day for the discussion of the administration of the First Lord of the Admiralty?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am not aware that there is a general desire at present for such a discussion, nor am I satisfied that under existing conditions it would be expedient in the public interest. The First Lord would raise no objection of any kind.
§ Sir E. CARSONWhat is the object of the First Lord of the Admiralty summoning together the members of the Press?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am told that that has been the regular practice. [HON. MEMBERS: "No!"] It has been done several times before.
Sir H. DALZIELCan the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance to the House 43 that the House will be put in possession of the information which the First Lord of the Admiralty is giving in secret to a large number of pressmen?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI should not like to answer that question off-hand, because the information, if it is of a secret character, ought only to be given to the House in a Secret Session.
§ Mr. HOUSTONWill the right hon. Gentleman arrange that the House shall meet in Secret Session to receive the information which has been given to the Press?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI understand that they are being warned that they are not to make use of it. I will consider that.
§ Mr. PRINGLEWill that apply not only to the statement of the First Lord of the Admiralty but also to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, the President of the Board of Trade, and other Ministers?
Sir H. DALZIELWill the right hon. Gentleman undertake that no statement shall be made in another place with regard to the naval situation that is not made simultaneously here?
The PRIME MINISTERSshould not like to give a general undertaking of that kind. As the House knows, I am as jealous as anybody in that matter.