HC Deb 05 August 1924 vol 176 cc2738-9
46. Captain WEDGWOOD BENN

asked the Prime Minister whether he will state the views of the Government as to the early passage of legislation to carry out the intentions of the Irish Treaty?

Mr. CLYNES

My right hon. Friend the Colonial Secretary hopes to make a statement on this subject on the Motion for the Adjournment the day after to-morrow.

Captain BENN

If a statement is not to be made until the Motion for Adjournment, will it not be too late then to introduce any legislation?

Mr. CLYNES

It will not be too late to introduce legislation.

Captain BENN

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Motion for Adjournment, if carried, terminates the business of the House.

Mr. CLYNES

On that Motion my right hon. Friend will make a statement.

Captain BENN

Am I not right in assuming that, if the statement is postponed until the Adjournment Motion, no further legislation will be introduced?

Mr. CLYNES

I cannot anticipate events so far as to answer that part of the question.

Mr. HEALY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Treaty of Limerick, which is the only previous treaty Which was ever made with Ireland, was broken before the ink wherewith 'twas writ was dry.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Should not the Members of this House have at least the right of determining whether legislation shall be introduced or not? Should not the House be allowed to express an opinion as to the urgency of this matter, and if it is left to the Adjournment day, then the House will have no such opportunity.

Mr. FERGUSON

On a point of Order. Is not the hon. Member playing to the gallery? [HON. MEMBERS: "Order!']