§ 45. Mr. Garro Jonesasked the Prime Minister whether, having regard to the importance of the work of the Public Accounts Committee, to the perfunctory nature of its co-operation with this House, and to the fact that so many years have passed since its work was reviewed by the House in debate, he will undertake to secure the allotment of a day during this and every year to discuss the work and the reports of this Committee and its officer the Comptroller and Auditor-General?
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)I have nothing to add to the reply which was given to the hon. Member on 16th March last in answer to a similar question.
§ Sir Irving AlberyIs it not a fact that under the Standing Orders the hon. Gentleman's leaders could call for these matters to be put down for discussion on a Supply Day?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir.
§ Mr. Garro JonesIs it not a fact that the Public Accounts Committee is one of the most important parts of the machinery of public finance, and the only part specifically charged with the retrospective examination of expenditure; and, that being so, is it not the duty of the Prime Minister, as the Leader of the House, to set this subject down?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir. If the hon. Member attaches such great importance to it, I should suggest that he should represent the matter to his leaders.
§ Mr. Garro JonesWhat I am asking the Prime Minister is whether he does not think it is his duty to do so? Will he answer that point?