§ 51. Sir W. COLLINSasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the announcement on behalf of the Government, on 17th July, in regard to the question of a Ministry of Health, he will further consider his reply of the 30th October, 1917; and, in view of the conflicting and varied interests involved and the number of Government Departments concerned, he will now consider the desirability of setting up some form of public inquiry by Royal Commission or otherwise into the desirability and practicability of instituting a Ministry of Health?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThis question is being actively considered by the Committee of Home Affairs, who hope shortly to settle a satisfactory scheme. The Government still consider the appointment of a Royal Commission unnecessary.
§ Sir W. COLLINSHave the difficulties and doubts surrounding this question, on which the Noble Lord, speaking on Wednesday last on behalf of the Government, in another place, dilated, disappeared?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI am aware that there are difficulties. The Cabinet Committee is considering them, and we hope to be able to arrange to meet them.
§ Colonel GREIGWill not this proposition add one to the number of Ministers?
§ Mr. PRINGLEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that unless a separate Bill is introduced for Scotland there will be serious opposition to it?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI am not aware of that.
§ Mr. PRINGLEIt is a fact.