HC Deb 21 June 1921 vol 143 cc1096-7
86 and 87. Major C. LOWTHER

asked the Minister without Portfolio (1) what are the duties upon which he is now engaged;

(2) whether he has made any proposals to the Treasury with a view to securing a large reduction in the Estimates for the financial year 1922–23, in accordance with the recommendations of the Treasury Circular dated 13th May, 1921?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

This is a question which will be dealt with in the Debate fixed to take place on Thursday.

Major LOWTHER

Does the right hon. Gentleman bar all questions because the Government has given a day for discussion? Surely we are entitled to ask a question.

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I think I can promise my hon. and gallant Friend that he will have the discussion he desires on Thursday. As we have fixed that day I do not think any useful purpose will be served by attempting to make Ministers state in detail in answer to a series of questions that which they can state fully in Debate.

Major LOWTHER

I beg to give notice that I will, at the end of Questions, ask leave to move the Adjournment of the House.

Earl WINTERTON

Is it competent to put any question to this Minister at all under the arrangements made by the Government?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Yes, I think it is obvious because there are two questions on the Paper to-day. Whether they should be answered by the Minister himself or by another Minister is a matter which, in accordance with the usual practice, is decided by Ministers themselves.

Earl WINTERTON

May I ask whether, also in accordance with the usual practice of the House, the right hon. Gentleman can arrange that in future questions put to the Minister, which concern his Department, shall be answered by him?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

No. If my Noble Friend will look at the series of questions addressed to the Prime Minister and myself he will observe that hen. Members do not choose to follow that rule themselves, though they may occasionally think it desirable to impose it upon Ministers.