HC Deb 05 February 1918 vol 101 cc2081-2
45. Mr. ROBINSON

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that this House is responsible for raising the sums of money entailed by the carrying on of the present War, he will consider the desirability of arranging for the Secretary of State for War to sit in this House and have an opportunity of replying to criticisms made in the House of Commons?

53. Major DAVIES

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the desirability of arranging that the Secretary of State for War should also be a Member of the House of Commons?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I cannot add anything to the reply which I gave to the hon. and gallant Member for Montgomeryshire on the 20th of December last.

Mr. ROBINSON

Does the right hon. Gentleman think it consistent with the dignity of the High Court of Parliament that criticism should be replied to in a social club?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I think there are bigger questions than that involved. I am convinced that the Government would be put into many unnecessary difficulties if the holders of high office were confined entirely to this House.

Mr. BILLING

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that the holders of high office do not use the luncheon table of a club devoted to advertising canvassers in London as a means for discussing high policy?