HC Deb 13 June 1921 vol 143 cc41-2
Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

(by Private Notice) asked the Lord Privy Seal if he can now state definitely whether Friday will be allocated to the discussion on the agenda for the Imperial Conference; and whether the Conference itself will meet on Thursday?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Yes, Sir. Friday will be allocated to the promised discussion. As regards the meeting of the Conference itself, I am sorry to say that it has become necessary to postpone it till next week, as the Prime Minister is forbidden by his medical advisers to resume his public work in London this week. The Dominion Prime Ministers already in this country and the representatives of India have been consulted and have given their consent to the postponement. They naturally attach great importance to the presence of the Prime Minister. We are informing the Prime Minister of Canada by wireless of the change. I am sure that he will attach equal importance to the Prime Minister's presence, and I hope that the alteration will not inconvenience him.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

With regard to Friday, may I ask if the Government intend to put down a

Motion, or what form will the discussion take?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I am not quite certain about the form, but it can either be taken on one of the Votes, or we will move the Adjournment of the House in order to give an opportunity of raising the question.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Will it be taken as being one of the Supply days?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

If it is a Vote, it will be a Supply day.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

We do not want that.

Captain W. BENN

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when the Motion for the Estimates Committee will appear on the Order Paper?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

If my hon. and gallant Friend will put a question on the Paper, I will answer it precisely. I am not quite certain what at this moment is delaying it. I thought the matter was arranged.