§ 42. Sir H. BRITTAINasked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of the Government to transfer to the Privy Council matters connected with the rela- 594 tions between Great Britain and the self-governing Dominions, leaving to the Colonial Office the administration of the Colonies properly so-called; and whether the Government has under consideration a special Department to deal with the territories in the Middle East over which this country exercises a protectorate or administrative mandate?
§ 58. Major-General Sir N. MOOREasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the frequent references in the Press to the intention of the Government to transfer from the Colonial Office the administration of dominion affairs, he is prepared to make a statement on this important proposal?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI would refer my hon. Friends to the answer given on Thursday last to a question by my hon. and gallant Friend, the Member for Stafford.
§ Earl WINTERTONHas the right hon. Gentleman received a letter, signed by a large number of Members of this House representing all parties, by Noble Lords in another place and by experts outside, and is he prepared to receive a deputation?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI shall certainly be very glad to meet any Members of the House who have any representations to make.
§ Earl WINTERTONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that I sent myself to Sir Maurice Hankey a letter signed by Members of all parties in this House, by Members of the House of Lords and by experts outside? Has he not received it?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am quite aware of the position on this subject. I can assure my Noble Friend that it was considered very carefully by the Government.