HC Deb 20 June 1927 vol 207 cc1493-4
46. Mr. HORE-BELISHA

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government have reached a decision with regard to the proposed abolition of the Department of Overseas Trade?

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Baldwin)

The matter referred to in the hon. Member's question is engaging the close attention of His Majesty's Government. I am not yet in a position to make a statement on the subject.

Captain GARRO-JONES

Is it to be understood that the decision to abolish this Department has now been brought under review for consideration?

The PRIME MINISTER

No, Sir.

Captain GARRO-JONES

What does the right hon. Gentleman mean by the statement that it is receiving the consideration of the Government? Does the decision that the Department is to be abolished stand?

The PRIME MINISTER

We are investigating a problem of some difficulty, as to what functions shall cease and what functions shall remain, and how the work shall be done.

Major Sir ARCHIBALD SINCLAIR

Can the right hon. Gentleman say how any function can possibly remain if, as he has just stated, the Ministry is to be abolished?

The PRIME MINISTER

If the Ministry were abolished some of the functions would go with it.

Mr. MAXTON

Was the decision to abolish the Department merely an ill-considered step to appease the cry for economy in the country?

The PRIME MINISTER

No, Sir.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Did Lord Salisbury accurately state in another place the view of the Cabinet on this matter?

The PRIME MINISTER

I did not see what he said, but I am quite sure that whatever he said was accurate.