BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE. (Hansard, 23 March 1936)

§ Mr. ATTLEE
May I ask the Prime Minister whether he has any statement to make as to the business for Tuesday?

§ The PRIME MINISTER
The subject of the Debate to-morrow will be the proposed new constitution for Palestine. The subject of the Debate on Thursday has not yet been settled. I will make a further statement about it on Wednesday.

§ Mr. ATTLEE
When shall we have an opportunity for a Debate on Foreign Affairs?

§ The PRIME MINISTER
I still am of the opinion which I expressed on Thursday. I am very anxious to have that Debate. I only safeguard myself in the event of something happening in the next day or two which may make the Debate, by general consent, undesirable. I still hope it will be possible.

§ Mr. ANEURIN BEVAN
Will the Prime Minister take note of the fact that facilities should be given for Private Members of the House to take part in the Debate?

§ The PRIME MINISTER
That, of course, is a matter for Mr. Speaker. So far as I am personally concerned, I would willingly cut my remarks short.

§ Mr. BEVAN
If only one day is to be afforded to this important matter, does the Prime Minister not realise that only the stars will be permitted to have any say at all, and that some of them take so long that none of us get a chance to speak?

§ The PRIME MINISTER
The House is well acquainted with my views. The point which the hon. Member raises is a matter for Mr. Speaker.

§ Sir W. BRASS
Would the Prime Minister consider limiting to 15 minutes the speeches made between 7 o'clock and half-past nine in the evening?—[HON. MEMBERS: "Why not before?"]

§ Mr. MAXTON
Does the Prime Minister not honestly think that some of his own colleagues are a little unnecessarily loquacious?

§ Mr. MABANE
Do I understand that the only subject for to-morrow's Debate will be the new constitution for Palestine, or will it be possible to debate other subjects?

§ The PRIME MINISTER
It all depends on the allocation of time. There is perfect liberty for any subject to be raised, provided hon. Members are able to catch Mr. Speaker's eye.
Ordered, That the Proceedings on Government Business be exempted, at this day's Sitting, from the provisions of the Standing Order (Sittings of the House).—[The Prime Minister.]