HC Deb 26 April 1917 vol 92 cc2580-1
61. Major GODFREY COLLINS

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been drawn to the Notice of Motion standing in the name of the hon. Member for Greenock and 161 hon. Members, including members of all parties; and whether the Government will give a day for the discussion of the Motion, or, if that is considered unnecessary, whether they will take steps to set up the Committee?—["That this House is of opinion, in view of the continued growth of Expenditure, Taxation and Debt, that a Committee be appointed, consisting of Members of this House, with power to review all National Expenditure, examine Ministers and officials, and report to the House."]

Mr. BONAR LAW

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The introduction of the Budget will afford an opportunity for the discussion of this subject, and I think its consideration might be deferred till then.

Major COLLINS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that according to the ruling of the Chair last year, the question of controlling expenditure, and questions of expenditure generally, were ruled out of order on that occasion; and in view of that ruling, and having regard to the largely expressed wish of this House, will he set aside an early day for the discussion of this vital matter?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I quite agree that it is quite necessary that it should be discussed, but I am not aware that it could not be discussed on the Budget; but I presume it could be discussed in connection with the Vote of Credit, which probably will be introduced in the following week.

Mr. G. FABER

Would it not be better to have one concentrated discussion?

Mr. BONAR LAW

An opportunity will be afforded for discussion in the natural course, but if there is still a desire for further discussion, I am quite ready to consider the matter.

Mr. LEIF JONES

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a most earnest desire throughout the whole country, and not only in this House, that this question should be discussed in a concentrated form?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I think the answer I have given shows that I am quite ready to meet the wishes of the House.