§ 46. Mr. HORE-BELISHAasked the Prime Minister whether it is under consideration to abolish the Secret Service; and whether any decision has yet been reached?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Philip Snowden.)No, Sir. This matter has not been considered by the Government.
§ Mr. MAXTONDoes the right hon. Gentleman remember that a promise was given on this matter by the Foreign Secretary before the Recess?
§ Mr. SNOWDENI remember that quite well, but the question I have answered is whether the abolition of the Secret Service has been considered by the Government. The hon. Member's question 310 asked if any changes in the Secret Service system were being considered by the Foreign Office, and my right hon. Friend said he had that matter under consideration.
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAMay I take it that the announcements that have appeared in the Press on the matter are misleading and do not represent the views of the Government?
§ Mr. SNOWDENI do not see that they can represent the views of the Government—I know nothing of what may have appeared in the Press—seeing that I said this matter has not been under the consideration of the Government.