HC Deb 02 June 1924 vol 174 cc869-70
44. Viscount CURZON

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the necessity for the Government to take further steps to deal with unemployment, the Government will take steps to assist in the construction of a Channel tunnel?

The PRIME MINISTER

This matter has been brought to my attention and I have undertaken to receive a representative deputation shortly after Whitsun.

Lady TERRINGTON

Will the right hon. Gentleman give this question earnest consideration, not only in view of the urgency of helping the unemployed, but as a means of promoting friendship between England and France?

The PRIME MINISTER

I am perfectly willing to do anything of that character, but, obviously, before I can take any decision, I must have reports upon it from the proper preliminary authorities.

Mr. LAMBERT

Are not the pigeonholes of the Government stuffed full of reports on this matter?

The PRIME MINISTER

That may be so, but, as regards this question, the reports relate to a condition of things which we all hope has completely gone, and it is necessary to have a survey of this proposition in view of the modern and more up-to-date conditions.