HC Deb 13 November 1917 vol 99 cc221-2
75. Mr. WATT

asked the Minister of Reconstruction why no Scottish representatives have been put on the committee recently set up by him to consider and report on the supply of building materials after the War; and whether he proposes to remedy this?

The MINISTER of RECONSTRUCTION (Dr. Addison)

I think that the House will recognise that the selection of committees of this character must be based, not on the principle of national representation, but on the individual fitness of members for the proposed inquiry. In this case Mr. Walker Smith was appointed to the committee after consultation with my right hon. Friend the Secretary for Scotland, on account of his-special knowledge and experience of Scottish conditions.

Mr. WATT

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether the Secretary for Scotland advised that no Scotsman should be on the committee?

Dr. ADDISON

The Secretary for Scotland advised that I should appoint Mr. Walker Smith.