§ 50. Mr. Shinwellasked the Prime Minister whether, when he invited certain members of political parties to join his Government, any agreement was reached on the non-contesting of by-elections; and, in view of the fact that no candidate has any hope of being returned unless full support is given to the vigorous prosecution of the war, he will now advise that the truce at by-elections should be terminated?
§ The Prime MinisterThe truce at by-elections was decided upon by the main political parties in the time of my predecessor. It followed therefore that when a national coalition was formed, in which all three parties officially participated with full representation in Ministerial office, the foundations and authority of the truce should be even more firmly established. The only advice I have to offer is that all those who are resolute to see the war through to a victorious conclusion should avail themselves of every occasion to mark their disapproval of trace-breakers.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs the Prime Minister aware that, in spite of the ban and of all the endeavours of party leaders, including himself, to influence the position, controversy still prevails, in the constituencies, that a large number of constituencies have been contested at by-elections, and further, in view of the fact that the Labour Party is being hamstrung in the constituencies because of this truce, and that, in addition, in the United States Congressional elections took place without impairing national unity, will he not consider giving the electors the free choice of deciding for themselves the merits of the respective official candidates?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir. I conceive that a Government must stand together as long as it is constituted on a regular constitutional basis.
§ Mr. MaxtonWould it not conduce to the observation of the truce among the Prime Minister's followers in the country if he could establish one for the House?
§ Mr. ShinwellIs not the Prime Minister aware that, as a result of this ban on contesting by-elections, we are creating a large number of small political groups, and following in the wake of France, where that sort of thing led to Fascism?
§ The Prime MinisterI cannot think these small political groups will live very long after the great parties divide and set about each other. I think that will at any rate exercise a salutary effect in clearing no man's land.