§ 52. Sir H. BRITTAINasked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of His Majesty's Government to invite Marshal Foch to visit Great Britain in connection with the forthcoming Peace celebrations; and, if so, whether that in- 1333 vitation will be extended to include representative detachments of the various sections of the French Army?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWMy hon. Friend's suggestion will be considered by the Government.
§ 54. Sir JOHN BUTCHERasked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of the Government to proclaim a public holiday to be observed in connection with the coming Peace celebrations or whether it will be left to each locality to select a day?
61. Captain COOTEasked the Prime Minister whether it will be part of the forthcoming Peace celebrations that the markets will be closed for three days; and, if so, whether he will consider, in fixing the date of such celebrations, the advisability of avoiding those periods when the fruit harvest is being gathered, in view of the fact that such harvest is perishable and a large portion thereof would be lost by the closing of the markets?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWIt is proposed shortly to make a statement to both Houses upon the intention of the Government with reference to the proclamation of a public holiday to be observed in connection with the coming Peace celebrations and upon the proposals of the Government on the whole question of Peace celebrations.
Colonel THORNEWill it be possible to have the Peace celebrations at Whitsuntide, so that the holidays and the celebrations may take place at the same time?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWIt really must depend on what happens in the course of the next few days or weeks?
§ Mr. RONALD McNEILLIs it proposed to hold the Peace celebrations while half Europe is still fighting?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThat is a very natural question, but, personally, if the Treaty were concluded with our chief enemies, I should consider it a subject for rejoicing.