§ The Lord Privy Seal (Mr. Attlee)My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister, in the Debate on the Second Reading of the House of Commons Disqualification (Temporary Provisions) Bill last Thursday, read to the House the suggested 779 terms of reference to the Select Committee which the Government promised to set up to inquire into the matter. The Government had in mind that the Committee would examine the problem in relation to peace-time and normal conditions. Several hon. Members suggested that the Select Committee should be free to make recommendations, not only as to peace-time conditions, but as to our future war-time policy on this matter. We propose to give the Select Committee by the terms of reference power, if they are so minded, to make recommendations under either head. The amended terms of reference are as follow:
To inquire into the law and practice governing the disqualifications for membership of the House of Commons by reason of the holding, or the acceptance of, offices or places of profit under the Crown, and to make recommendations.I think it may meet the convenience of the House if the Motion for the Select Committee were considered to-day after we have disposed of the remaining stages of the House of Commons Disqualification Bill. I would like to ask you, Sir, whether you will allow the Motion to be proposed without notice at a later stage in our proceedings?
§ Mr. SpeakerThat step would be unusual, but, in view of the urgency of the matter, and if the House is willing, I will not stand in the way.