§ 71 and 72. Sir J. CORYasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture (1) why the Welsh National party was not consulted with reference to the nomination of a local representative to serve on the Royal Commission on Agriculture; (2) whether Mr. T. Prosser-Jones, of Ystradgynlais, who has been appointed a member of the Royal Commission on Agriculture, is intended to be a representative for Wales; if so, what Welsh interests were consulted before he was selected; and, if not, what qualifications the Board considers he has to act for Wales on this body?
Sir A. BOSCAWENThe Welsh Parliamentary party was not formally consulted as to the nomination of representatives on the Royal Commission because, by a Resolution passed at a meeting of the party, confirmed on 8th May by a deputation to the President, the party decided to demand a separate Commission for Wales, and intimated their refusal to take any part in the Royal Commission unless their demand was satisfied. The nomination of Mr. Prosser-Jones was made on the recommendation of the chairman of the Welsh National party. Mr. Prosser-Jones has worked on a farm, and possesses a wide knowledge of labour conditions in Wales.
§ Mr. HINDSWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman say what is his authority for saying that the Welsh party passed a resolution that they would not have anything to do with the Commission unless they had a separate one for Wales?
Sir A. BOSCAWENThe information was conveyed to me by the chairman of the Welsh Parliamentary party.
Sir H. DALZIELCan the hon. and gallant Gentleman say whether the Welsh National party is a branch of the National party?
Lieut.-Colonel MURRAYInasmuch as there are still vacancies on the Commission, will the hon. and gallant Gentleman consider the appointment of a representative of the tenant farmers?
§ Mr. DEVLINWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman say where Mr. Prosser-Jones comes from?