HC Deb 03 June 1924 vol 174 cc1058-9
46. Mr. LUMLEY

asked the Prime Minister whether he can give an assurance that when changes are made by Ministers by administrative Orders, varying in a material degree existing administrative Orders, this House shall be informed of the same either by laying a copy of such Order or by other means?

Mr. CLYNES

I am not clear what Orders the hon. Member has particularly in mind. Provision is made by Statute for the due publication of all Orders made under statutory powers, including in many cases the laying of the Orders before Parliament.

Mr. LUMLEY

Would it be correct to say that the present Government have already got through a good deal of work by means of administrative Orders of which this House does not know?

Mr. CLYNES

It is true to say that the Government have got through a great deal of work by administrative action.

Mr. LUMLEY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that. at Hull a statement was made that the Government had got through a good deal of work without the House of Commons being consulted, and are we to understand that the gentleman who made that statement, the secretary of the Trades Union Congress, was talking about matters of which he did not know?

Mr. CLYNES

The House of Commons has shown an unusual alertness during the course of this Session to secure all necessary information on our actions.

Sir F. HALL

Is not that owing to the assistance given by hon. Members on this side?