HC Deb 12 November 1918 vol 110 cc2497-8
69. Mr. DILLON

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the cause of the delay in carrying out the inquiry into the affairs of the Acetate of Cellulose Company; what procedure has been settled by the Commission of Inquiry; and whether the proceedings will be conducted in public?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am not aware that there has been any delay on the part of the British Cellulose Inquiry Committee in carrying out the inquiry. It has been found necessary to examine a large number of documents, and preliminary statements have been received from various persons, some of whom have been granted time in which to prepare their statements and evidence. It has been decided for the present to take evidence in private.

Mr. DILLON

Are counsel allowed to appear on behalf of the various interests, and why has it been decided to take evidence in private?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I cannot answer the first question. I have not made inquiry recently. But it was left to the tribunal itself to decide. As regards the second part, it was also left to the tribunal to have it in private or in public as it thought best. In any case the object was to have the report, and that will be given.

Mr. DILLON

Was not the object stated in the House to be to enlighten the public and clear away misunderstandings, and how can you clear them away if the public do not see the evidence?

Mr. BONAR LAW

From the very first it was put to me in the House when the Committee was set up, and I said then I would leave it to the discretion of the tribunals whether discussions should be public or private.