HC Deb 24 April 1934 vol 288 c1553
66. Brigadier-General Sir HENRY CROFT

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies on what grounds the Speaker of the State Council in Ceylon has been granted six months' leave of absence; and whether during such leave he is granted full salary?

The Secretary of STATE for the COLONIES (Sir Philip Cunliffe-Lister)

I am aware that the State Council of Ceylon recently granted an application from the Speaker for six months' leave of absence. I have no information as to the grounds on which the application was made or as to the conditions on which the leave was granted.

Sir H. CROFT

Is it a fact that the Speaker of the State Council recently figured in a divorce case and that he has applied for six months' leave of absence, whereas Article 15 lays down that no leave can be given for more than three months except on the grounds of illness or absence from the island? In view of this fact, does my right hon. Friend intend to take any action to see that the full salary is not paid?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

I should certainly like notice of any question about the particular terms of Standing Orders. I know nothing about the private life of the Speaker. I was rather under the impression that the relations between the Council and the Speaker under the Standing Orders were a matter entirely for the Council.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire whether what the hon. and gallant Member says in the supplementary question is not confirmed by what the poet says about the island, where Every prospect pleases And only man is vile.