HC Deb 21 May 1924 vol 173 cc2189-90
45. Mr. AYLES

asked the Prime Minister whether any agreement has been come to with regard to the constitution of the Committee of Inquiry into the question of Home Rule for Scotland, Wales, and England, and the date when they will commence their work?

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. J. Ramsay MacDonald)

This matter is being dealt with, but a little time must elapse before the Government are in a position to make a statement.

Mr. MACPHERSON

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether this will be a Committee of this House or a Joint Committee of the two Houses?

The PRIME MINISTER

That is one of the matters which is under consideration. There is a great deal to be said for this House and a great deal to be said for the other.

Mr. STURROCK

Is it the intention of the Government to place the whole subject of devolution back to where it stood before the Lowther Committee sat and reported most valuably upon it?

The PRIME MINISTER

That is one of the matters under consideration.

Mr. AYLES

If I put a question down in a fortnight's time, has the Prime Minister any hopes of being able to give a definite answer then?

The PRIME MINISTER

Yes, I think that will be all right.

Mr. PRINGLE

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what good he expects this Committee to do?

The PRIME MINISTER

To clear the air.