HC Deb 05 August 1919 vol 119 cc165-6
55. Sir J. BUTCHER

asked the Prime Minister whether the expenses of the Select Committee ordered by the House of Lords on the case of Miss Violet Douglas-Pennant will appear on the Votes and, if so, under what heading; and whether the Government will consider the desirability of refusing to pay any of the expenses of this Committee?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Any such expenses would be chargeable to the Vote for House of Lords' Offices, which includes provision for witnesses attending the Committees and shorthand-writers. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.

Sir J. D. REES

May I ask what course the head of a Department must adopt in future when he thinks it desirable to remove a lady who by birth, brains, or beauty possesses powerful influence?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise out of this question.