§ 55. Sir J. BUTCHERasked the Primo Minister whether he can state the approximate total cost to all parties concerned of the recent Committee of Inquiry of the House of Lords into the case of Miss Violet Douglas-Pennant; what portion of that cost will fall on the public purse; and whether a method can be devised whereby persons who are, in the course of such an Inquiry, made the subject of charges which turn out to be totally un- 1432 founded may be protected against the cost of defending themselves against such charges?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWIt is not possible at present to state the approximate total cost of the recent Inquiry, or what portion of it will fall on the public purse. As regards the last part of the question, my hon. and learned Friend's suggestion is receiving consideration.
§ Sir J. BUTCHERWill my right hon. Friend consider the propriety of making provision that evidence given before these Committees of Inquiry shall not be regarded as privileged?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWNobody knows better than my hon. and learned Friend that that would be a very big departure to make.