HC Deb 29 July 1931 vol 255 cc2293-4
76. Sir DONALD MACLEAN

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the Economy Report has yet been signed; and, if so, when it will be made public?

Mr. P. SNOWDEN

The report was signed on the 24th instant. I anticipate that it will be in the hands of Members before the House rises, but I cannot give an absolute assurance.

Mr. BRACKEN

Does the right hon. Gentleman still remain of the opinion that he could have written the report in advance?

Mr. SMITHERS

Is it not possible for the Chancellor of the Exchequer to arrange that the report should be in the hands of Members of the House before the Debate on the Appropriation Bill finishes?

Mr. SNOWDEN

That is not possible. I only received the signed report at the end of last week, and I gave instructions at once for the printing to be put in hand, and that it must be carried out with the utmost expedition. I hope it will be available to hon. Members on Friday, as I am very anxious that they should have some cheerful reading to take away with them.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

In view of the previous statement just quoted, that the right hon. Gentleman could have written the report in advance, may I assume that the Government are already in agreement with its conclusions?

Mr. SNOWDEN

The hon. Member may assume, as he usually does, whatever he thinks fit.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

May I ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, if I assume what he says to be true, I should be inaccurate?

Mr. WISE

May we assume that no action will be taken on points of policy arising out of this report until the House has had an opportunity of discussing it?

Mr. SNOWDEN

No.

Mr. WISE

In the opinion—

Mr. SPEAKER

rose—

Mr. SMITHERS

On a point of Order. May I be permitted to ask, in the interests of the whole of the Members of this House, a question of great public importance, whether it would not be possible for some advance copies to be made available? They need not be bound or made up.

Mr. MARJORIBANKS

Having regard to the Chancellor of the Exchequer's remarks yesterday about courtesy, may I ask if the right hon. Gentleman's replies are not lacking in courtesy?

Mr. SMITHERS

May I have a reply to my question?

Mr. SPEAKER

That has nothing to do with me.