HC Deb 29 July 1918 vol 109 c42
63. Mr. KING

asked the Prime Minister whether he will postpone the Supplementary Estimate for the Ministry of Information till after the autumn Recess, especially bearing in mind that it is a new service and that the National Expenditure Committee's Report on it is not available?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I can add nothing to what I said on this subject on Friday.

Mr. DILLON

Would it not be more to the convenience of the House if the right hon. Gentleman would let us know whether he proposes to take this Vote before the Recess? I am inclined to think that he cannot do it, but ought to have his mind made up.

Mr. BONAR LAW

The hon. Member was present on Friday when this matter was discussed, and when I said that I would leave it to the right hon. Gentlemen on the Front Opposition Bench to decide. I am quite ready to do that.

Mr. DILLON

Surely, that is a new departure. Why should the Front Opposition Bench have this decision. There are others interested who take a very strong view of this matter, and they are entitled to have a voice.

Mr. BONAR LAW

The Government must take the best means at its disposal to find out what is the wish of the House. The subject is being considered, and a statement will be made to-morrow.

Mr. KING

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Gentlemen on the Front Opposition Bench consider the Front Opposition Bench much more than the real Opposition?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have not quite found out where is the real opposition.

Mr. DEVLIN

You will know all about it very soon.