HC Deb 10 January 1918 vol 101 cc315-6
Mr. BARNES (War Cabinet)

I wish to explain that my speech at Glasgow yesterday has not been fully or accurately reported, and the published summaries do not convey an accurate account of what I said, or meant to say.

Mr. PRINGLE

On a point of Order. I would like to ask, is it in accordance with the Rules of this House for a Minister make a statement in regard to a speech made outside this House?

Mr. SPEAKER

I understand that the right hon. Gentleman wishes to offer a personal explanation in regard to something which has appeared in the papers.

Mr. PRINGLE

Will the House have an opportunity of discussing the matter?

Mr. SPEAKER

Not on this occasion.

Mr. BARNES

I desire to make this explanation because I notice there are in the Press this morning a number of astounding headlines, and as there is some risk of harm being done I wish to take this opportunity of allaying any misunderstanding at the earliest possible moment. I have no intention of disclaiming responsibility for the course adopted by the Government in regard to the 12½ per cent. increase in wages. I expressed my approval of the course pursued in regard to giving effect to the promise which had been made to remove the skilled men's grievance when it was brought before the Cabinet, and I supported it there. The matter was referred to Lord Milner and myself, and we both agreed. I had no intention whatever of making an attack on the Minister of Munitions or of fixing upon him individual responsibility. What I had in my mind to say was, "We butted in." I ought to have said that. What I meant to say was that neither the Minister of Munitions, nor myself, nor the War Cabinet appreciated at the time the extent to which we should be forced by pressure to embark upon this policy. I desired to emphasise to the various classes of workers who might consider themselves affected the importance of not taking advantage of an honest attempt to meet a grievance.

Mr. PRINGLE

Will the right hon. Gentleman issue an authorised report of his speech?

Mr. HARRIS

Is this an example of the "Do it now Government"?

Mr. PRINGLE

What about Winston? Where does he come in?