§ Sir DONALD MACLEAN (by Private Notice)asked the Leader of the House whether he can give an opportunity for a discussion of the Motion which stands on the Paper in the name of the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Midlothian in reference to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWNo. So far as the Government are concerned, we do not think that such a discussion would be desirable, and in the ordinary course we would not give facilities for it. If, how- 1603 ever, my right hon. Friend, in his capacity as Leader of the Opposition, asks for an opportunity for a Vote of Censure, I shall find time for it.
§ Sir D. MACLEANIn view of the fact that I have no intention of moving such a Motion as a Vote of Censure, but only wish to clear up the constitutional point, surely my right hon. Friend will agree that it is rather an undue limitation of free debate in this House to impose such a condition as that?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWNo; I do not, and I hope that the House will agree with me. The special safeguards which exist in our Rules, preventing such a discussion, are there for the express purpose of ensuring a sense of great responsibility. I could not, therefore, agree to it unless the responsibility is taken of moving a Vote of Censure on the Government.