HC Deb 05 June 1919 vol 116 c2198
45. Brigadier-General CROFT

asked the Prime Minister whether he will appoint an immediate judicial inquiry in order that evidence may be taken on oath as to the allegations that titles have been bestowed in return for monetary consideration?

Mr. BONAR LAW (Leader of the House)

The answer is in the negative.

Brigadier-General CROFT

If I am able to give the right hon. Gentleman three specific cases of purchase of honours in the last ten years and three specific cases of gentlemen of dubious character being given titles, will he cause an inquiry to be made?

Mr. BONAR LAW

It will depend upon the period of time for one thing, and, as to dubious character, that is always a matter of extreme delicacy.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

In view of the great interest in this question, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he will consider following the Canadian public opinion in this country and give over the practice of distributing any more titles?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not at all arise out of this question.