§ 69. Mr. MARRIOTTasked the Prime Minister whether he has received a petition praying that a Royal Commission or Parliamentary Committee be forthwith appointed to inquire into the existing methods of the collection and presentation of public statistics, and to report on the means of improvement; whether he is prepared to assent to the prayer; and whether he would be prepared to receive, at an early date a deputation on the subject?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The petition raises questions of considerable complexity, and as soon as the Prime Minister is able to look into the question, I shall inform my hon. Friend whether or not he can find time to receive-a deputation.
§ Mr. MARRIOTTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this question has not only a very high scientific interest, but it has also a very direct practical bearing on national economy?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI mentioned in my answer its importance on economy, but I 1623 think it is only right that my right hon. Friend should have an opportunity of examining it.