§ 50. Mr. G. TERRELLasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the consequences which are likely to occur to manufactures on the cessation of hostilities if there is delay in appointing a central authority empowered to wind up, settle, and to make prompt payments on account of war contracts; and what immediate steps he proposes to take to deal with the matter?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe Government are fully aware of the position referred to in the question, and are taking all possible steps to deal with it.
§ Mr. TERRELLCould my right hon. Friend state what is the nature of the steps which are being taken, as this is a matter of very great importance?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWIt is a matter of very great importance, but I think it would take me a longer time than my hon. Friend would desire if I had the information and could give all the particulars.
§ Mr. TERRELLWill my right hon. Friend publish the information?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI do not think that is a course that could be taken. It involves a tremendous amount of work by a great many authorities. It has been considered for some months, and it is impossible to say exactly in what way it is going to be dealt with.
§ Mr. KEATINGWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that though it involves a great amount of work, it would relieve a great amount of anxiety, if he would undertake it?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI am well aware of that. The work is not in making the statement, but in making the arrangements.