§ 7. Mr. KINGasked the First Commissioner of Works whether he has received Reports from Mr. Powell and Mr. Ruthen, appointed to inquire into the use made of the Government offices; whether the organisation and efficiency of the new Departments have been reported on; whether Reports will be laid before Parliament; and whether, if the whole Reports are not available, their conclusions will be issued?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Sir Alfred Mond)The information, which is being collected by Mr. Powell and Mr. Ruthen, is for the confidential use of the Committee on Government Office Accommodation, and it is not proposed to issue it as a Parliamentary Paper.
§ Mr. KINGWould it be possible to issue some of the conclusions, especially if they were reassuring?
§ Sir A. MONDThe conclusions are not suitable for publication.
§ Mr. KINGMay we take it that the Reports are reassuring? May I also ask the right hon. Gentleman whether an opportunity will be given at an early date to discuss this question, the facts of which are becoming quite notorious, in connection with any Secret Session, or the putting down of the Office of Works Vote?
§ Sir A. MONDThat is a matter for the Leader of the House and not for me.
§ Mr. KINGWill the right hon. Gentleman facilitate discussion at an early date, so that we may have the matter out?