HC Deb 06 May 1941 vol 371 cc680-1
49. Mr. Keeling

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government will offer the same opposition to the Grampians power scheme that was promised to the Caledonian power scheme pending the conclusion of the war?

Mr. Johnston

I have been asked to reply. The Commission, consisting of Members of both Houses, who inquired into the draft Order, found the Preamble proved, and passed the Order subject to certain Amendments. Pending the introduction of the Confirmation Bill it would be premature of me to make any statement on the attitude of the Government to the Order.

Mr. Keeling

Is my right hon. Friend aware that when the Grampians Power (Confirmation) Bill reaches this House it will be very strongly opposed? Does he think it right that the time of the House should be occupied by discussing a scheme which cannot be proceeded with during the war?

Mr. Johnston

I repeat that, pending the introduction of the Bill, it is impossible to make any statement as to the attitude of the Government towards the Bill.

Mr. Buchanan

Is it fair to ask the Members of the House of Commons to make up their minds on a matter on which the evidence was heard in camera and cannot be placed before hon. Members in order that they may form a considered judgment?

Mr. Johnston

There is very considerable force in that argument, but I can merely repeat that it is impossible, pending the introduction of the Bill, which might or might not take place, for a statement to be made concerning the attitude of the Government to the Bill.

Mr. Maxton

Why cannot the proceedings of the Committee be made public in the Scottish Press? Why, contrary to practice, should the Committee meet in secret? Whose decision was it?

Mr. Johnston

I take it that the decision was that of the Chairman. I think the reason for holding the proceedings in camera was that the Bill related to matters which are of strategical war importance.

Mr. Mathers

When is the Bill likely to be available to the House?

Mr. Buchanan

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, during this Sitting and the next, matters of far more importance will be discussed than was the case during the whole fortnight's hearing of the Bill in Committee?

Mr. Johnston

I do not dissent from that view.