HC Deb 28 November 1922 vol 159 cc485-6
54. Captain W. BENN

asked the Prime Minister what opportunity will occur during the present Session for a discussion on the position of ex-service men and their dependants?

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Bonar Law)

I fear there will be no opportunity for a discussion on this subject, unless it is raised in the course of the Debate on the Address.

Captain BENN

In view of the fact that an opportunity may not arise on the Address, will not the Leader of the House make an opportunity, owing to the grave importance of the subject?

The PRIME MINISTER

This Session is called, as my hon. and gallant Friend well knows, for a specific purpose, and I should not agree to do anything which would detain the House longer than was absolutely necessary.

Captain BENN

Does the right hon. Gentleman not admit the right of a new Parliament to have an opportunity of discussing a matter of such great importance?

The PRIME MINISTER

I admit the right of the majority of the. House of Commons to decide any question.

Lieut.-Colonel WATTS-MORGAN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in one union alone in South Wales there are 3,000 ex-service men being relieved by the-board of guardians?