35. Mr. VYVYAN ADAMSasked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of His Majesty's Government to introduce a declaratory Bill to confirm the principle that, when the salaries of the judges were subjected to reductions under the Economy Act, 1931, there was no infringement of their judicial independence; and, if so, when such legislation is contemplated?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Ramsay MacDonald)There are great difficulties in preparing a Bill to affirm a principle that His Majesty's Government regard as unassailed and unassailable. The Government has under consideration whether such a declaratory Act is necessary or desirable.
Mr. ADAMSWhile thanking the right hon. Gentleman for the courtesy of his reply, may I ask, very respectfully, whether it is clear to him that in the original question on the Paper there was no suggestion implicit for any preferential treatment to the judges in the matter of any restoration of cuts?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat is so. I do not think it was involved at all.