46. Mr. Davidsonasked the Prime Minister whether he will consider in the near future assisting the Secretary of State for Scotland by the appointment of an additional Under-Secretary of State?
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)The question of appointing an additional Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland is, as the hon. Member is aware, referred to in the course of the Report of the Departmental Committee on Scottish Administration, though they made no specific recommendation on the matter. This report is now receiving consideration, and I am not at present in a position to make any statement.
Mr. DavidsonIn view of the fact that this report has been under consideration for a considerable time and that Scottish business, very evidently, is not being adequately dealt with as things are just now, will the Prime Minister at least hasten on this particular appointment apart from waiting for the full consideration of the report?
§ The Prime MinisterI do not think it can be considered apart from the other questions raised in the report.
§ Sir Archibald SinclairCan the Prime Minister say when he will be able to inform the House of the result of the Government's consideration of this report, and whether a statement will be made before the House rises at the end of the month?
§ The Prime MinisterI could not say that without notice.
§ Mr. ManderWill the Prime Minister bear in mind that there are already upwards of 100 Members in this House dependent on the Government, and that we do not want any additions to the number?