HC Deb 20 July 1937 vol 326 cc1970-1
45. Mr. Mander

asked the Prime Minister whether the Royal Commission on Palestine consulted the Government before presenting a report which went outside their terms of reference?

The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)

The Royal Commission did not consult His Majesty's Government before presenting their report. Having regard to the last part of the terms of reference, I do not accept the suggestion that the Royal Commission went beyond their reference.

Mr. Mander

Is not the Prime Minister aware that Lord Peel himself admitted that they went outside their terms of reference, and is there any precedent for a Royal Commission presenting a report without hearing any evidence on a matter which is outside their terms of reference and without referring to the Government?

The Prime Minister

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that question down.