HC Deb 01 August 1922 vol 157 c1251
47. Captain BENN

asked the Prime Minister how many Lordships of the Treasury are now vacant; and why these offices are not filled?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

There is at present one Lordship of the Treasury vacant.

Captain BENN

Will the right hon. Gentleman kindly answer the second part of the question, why these posts in the Government are not filled?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I confess that. I am surprised by the hon. and gallant Gentleman's question. I should have thought he would he more anxious to inquire why they had been filled, if they had been filled.

Captain BENN

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his interesting observations, may I press him to answer the question, why does he not fill the posts? Are the Government afraid of the bye-elections?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Perhaps the Prime Minister is waiting for the hon. and gallant Gentleman's assistance.

Major M. WOOD

Are we to understand that the late hon. Member for Pontypridd (Mr. T. A. Lewis) is still to retain his office?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

He will retain it at present.

Major WOOD

Can he discharge his duties?