HC Deb 05 June 1945 vol 411 c688
54. Mr. McIntyre

asked the Prime Minister if he will arrange for a referendum in Scotland on the question of the establishing of a democratic legislature in that country, through which the Scottish people would be able to control effectively the affairs of their own country.

The Prime Minister

No, Sir.

Mr. Shinwell

Has not the right hon. Gentleman recently expressed a liking for a referendum in another connection? Why does he reject this modest plea on behalf of Scotland?

The Prime Minister

After the cruel denunciation which compared it to Hitler and Mussolini, I certainly could not advise its application to Scottish affairs.

Mr. Shinwell

Why does the right hon. Gentleman accept defeat of that kind so lightly? Why does he not stand up to us?