59. Mr. A. T. DAVIESasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the business of the forthcoming Imperial Cabinet in London has been arranged; what are the subjects for discussion; and on which will definite decisions be taken?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Churchill)The Prime Ministers are alone competent to decide the business with which they will deal at their forthcoming meeting, but certain proposals on the subject have been made, the more important of which were stated in reply to a question in this House on 28th April. I cannot undertake to forecast what action will ultimately be taken.
§ Earl WINTERTONIs it intended to inform the House at all of any questions which are to be discussed, and does the right hon. Gentleman not think that this House would be abrogating its functions if it did not have an opportunity of discussing them?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI will consider whether the draft agenda can be laid before the House. Of course, I could not guarantee that it would be exhaustive, because there might be topics discussed which, perhaps, it would be better not to announce, though matters of public interest.
§ Earl WINTERTONWould the right, hon. Gentleman consider whether all questions to be publicly discussed at the Conference could be stated to this House beforehand, and that, if possible, the House be given an opportunity of expressing its views?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe questions are not publicly discussed. They are confidential and secret discussions between the Prime Ministers.
§ Mr. T. P. O'CONNORIn view of the serious and evil effects of the present relations between the Empire and Ireland, will the question of Ireland be discussed by the Prime Ministers of the Dominions, all of whom have expressed entire sympathy with Irish demands for self-government?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI must have notice of a question like that.