§ 85. Mr. STURROCKasked the Lord. Privy Seal whether, in view of the fact that, owing to the limited time allowed for the consideration of the Scottish Estimates earlier in the Session, many of the Votes had to be passed without discussion, he will favourably consider a proposal allow the Scottish Standing Committee to, examine these Estimates prior to their consideration in the House?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI regret that I cannot add anything to what I said in reply to a question by the hon. Member for East Aberdeen on the 12th August last.
§ Mr. STURROCKIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Prime Minister said the other day that the House of Commons is the-proper place for the consideration of financial matters; and is he also aware that under existing conditions Scottish Members have no opportunity whatever of controlling State expenditure in their own country?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI am sorry to hear and I am rather surprised to find that the influence of Scottish Members is so small. The question as to what Votes should he taken in this House does not rest with the Government, but with the Opposition, and if they select Scottish Estimates opportunities will be given.