48. Sir H. COWANasked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to the fact that only four hours of Parliamentary time were available for the Debate on the Scottish Estimates on Mon day, 4th August, and that no time what ever was available for any discussion on the Fishery Vote; and whether, with a view to affording adequate facilities for discussion in the future, he will consider the desirability of remitting to the Scottish Standing Committee future Scottish Estimates?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWUnder existing procedure, the Scottish Estimates, like other Civil Service Estimates, are referred to a Standing Committee unless the Opposition ask that they should be taken in Committee of the Whole House, which happened on this occasion. I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to the hon. Member for the St. Rollox Division on the 6th instant.
Sir H. COWANWill the right hon. Gentleman see that such arrangements are made between the Government and the Opposition on future occasions that full Parliamentary time will be given to the discussion of these important Scottish Estimates?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThat is desirable, but how can the Government do so except with the agreement of the Opposition?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWA combination.