HC Deb 27 June 1918 vol 107 cc1251-2
Mr. RUNCIMAN

Can the Leader of the House tell us what; business will be taken in the House next week?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The Education Bill, Committee stage, will be taken on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.

Thursday will be Supply. I will give the Vote at the beginning of next week.

Sir E. CARSON

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when the Imports and Exports Licensing Bill will be introduced and a statement made on economic policy?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I hope that a statement may be made before the Recess, but my right hon. and learned Friend will understand that part of this subject is now being discussed at the Conference, and possibly I may ask the House to delay the statement.

Mr. BILLING

Will the right hon. Gentleman undertake to give a day before the Recess for a discussion on the question of the internment of enemy aliens in this country; and can he say when we may expect the Recess to take place?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Obviously I cannot answer the last part of the question. As regards the first part, I do not see at present any reason for giving a special day for that subject.

Mr. BILLING

Will the right hon. Gentleman take the opinion of the House on the matter?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have always expressed my readiness, and have acted upon it, to give a day whenever there is a general desire for it. In this case I hope the statement we may make will render that unnecessary.

Mr. PRINGLE

If this matter be of sufficient importance to require the personal attention of the Prime Minister, is it not of sufficient importance to allow of Debate in this House?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have said the question whether or not a day shall be given depends on the issue of the Conference. My hope is that after it has been considered further, another Debate may not be deemed necessary.

Mr. KING

Can we have the Home Office Vote next Thursday, which would give an opportunity for discussion?

Mr. BILLING

Is the Leader of the House aware that the Gentleman about to take his seat would never have taken his seat were it not for the undertaking given to intern the Germans?