§ 41. Mr. THURTLEasked the Prime Minister what steps he proposes to take, if any, to ascertain the general desire of the House in regard to the question of a reconsideration of Ministerial salaries.
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe usual steps.
§ Mr. THURTLEDo I understand, from the right hon. Gentleman's reply, that he proposes to take a vote of the House on this matter?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat raises another question altogether. I have answered the hon. Member's question.
§ Mr. THURTLEWill the right hon. Gentleman, in view of the interest that is taken in this matter, take a vote of the House upon it before he takes any action?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI must await the results of the usual steps.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODDoes not the Prime Minister think it ridiculous that a country which cannot afford to pay its workers——
§ Mr. SPEAKERThis really is not the time to investigate the thoughts of Ministers, but the time to get answers about facts.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODArising from the reply of the Prime Minister, does he not think it ridiculous that a country which cannot afford to pay its workers a living wage is going to pay high salaries to officals——
§ Mr. SPEAKER rose——
§ Mr. KIRKWOODOn a point of Order. I understand perfectly well that, if you say it, we shall never be in order at all.
§ Mr. SPEAKERI must be the judge of that.