HC Deb 25 June 1917 vol 95 c28
62. Mr. BLISS

asked the Prime Minister whether General Smuts is a member of the War Cabinet for the consideration of all questions?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have nothing to add to the answer which I gave to a Private Notice question by my right Hon. Friend the Member for North Monmouth on the 18th of June last

Mr. KING

Does that mean that General Smuts can attend, but must not speak or express his opinion?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I do not think that General Smuts would accept such a position, and certainly no Government would ask him to do so

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

As this point is one of some constitutional importance, I would like to ask does General Smuts sit as a member of the Cabinet when it is discussing matters relating only to domestic questions?

Mr. BONAR LAW

If such questions arise when he is present he himself has laid it down that those are questions in which he would not interfere.