HC Deb 18 February 1918 vol 103 c460
53. Mr. LYNCH

asked the Prime Minister whether he will state the constitutional grounds on which His Majesty was advised to use in the Speech from the Throne the expression "My Empire" as including Australia?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I cannot add anything to the answer which I gave to the hon. Member on the 18th of June last.

Mr. BILLING

On a point of Order. Is it in order for the right hon. Gentleman to refer hon. Members to an answer given in another Session?

Mr. SPEAKER

He can refer to any answer which was given here.

Mr. BILLING

We have entered on a new Session now, and that answer was given in another Session? Is it in order for a Minister to refer an hon. Member to an answer given in another Session?

Mr. SPEAKER

Certainly, even as far back as ten years.

Mr. LYNCH

May I call your attention, as guardians of our liberties in this House, to this usurpation, and may I beg that you will so inform His Majesty on my part?

Mr. SPEAKER

I may remind the hon. Member that he has no right, according to usage, to introduce His Majesty's name.

Mr. LYNCH

I adhere to what I have said.