§ 45. Commander BELLAIRSasked the Prime Minister whether the Government adhere to the position taken up on 10th August, 1916, that there is no reason for altering the title of the Secretary of State for the Colonies, and that there is no evidence that any of the Dominions desire such a change; and whether he will ascertain the opinion of the Imperial Cabinet?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, and to the last in the negative.
§ Commander BELLAIRSWill the right hon. Gentleman say why he cannot ascertain the opinion of the Dominions, when that opinion can be ascertained in five minutes?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWYes, but it seems to be quite unnecessary. The Dominions' representatives would not hesitate to express that view if they had it.
§ Mr. BILLINGWhy does the right hon. Gentleman refer to them as Dominions and then as Colonies? Is he aware that the feeling in the Colonies—[HON. MEMBERS: Colonies!]