48. Major MALONEasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the present prospect of peace, he is prepared to appoint a Committee of this House, representing all parties, to formulate a scheme of self-government for Ireland within the Empire that may give satisfaction to all who wish to see the Irish question settled on constitutional lines?
§ Mr. BONAR LAW (Leader of the House)I am afraid that the suggestion of my hon. Friend would not be likely to produce the desired result.
Major MALONEAm I to understand from that reply that the measure already on the Statute Book for the government of Ireland is to be put into operation immediately on the declaration of peace?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWNo; I think it would be a mistake to have that idea.
§ Captain WEDGWOOD BENNMay I ask whether we are right in assuming that the Chief Secretary's statement the other day represents the full Government policy with respect to Ireland?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe Chief Secretary's statement, which I heard, represents the present policy of His Majesty's Government.