HC Deb 29 September 1949 vol 468 cc307-8

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That this House, at its rising this day, do adjourn till Tuesday, 18th October."—[Mr. H. Morrison.]

Mr. Walter Fletcher

On that point, as today is the only day on which we are going to sit before 18th October, would it not be possible for some statement to be made during the day on the grave question raised by the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Woodford (Mr. Churchill)? The Prime Minister said he was not informed at the present moment, but if during the course of today's Debate he is informed could not we have some statement?

The Lord President of the Council (Mr. Herbert Morrison)

My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister gave an undertaking to the Leader of the Opposition. He said first of all that he was not aware of the statement to which the Leader of the Opposition referred and obviously he would inquire into it. I think we must leave it to the discretion and judgment of the Prime Minister. It does not affect the question of the Adjournment today—[HON. MEMBERS: "Oh!"]—I am only referring to what the hon. Gentleman said. He asked whether a statement could be made today, not tomorrow or the next day, and on that basis obviously it is a matter for today. I think it is desirable that this Motion should be approved, but my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister will look into the point which the Leader of the Opposition has submitted to him.

Earl Winterton

Surely it would be for the convenience of the House if we were told if this calamitous information is correct and whether or not it would be possible under this Motion to call the House together tomorrow in order to hear a statement. Is not this a matter of enormous importance not only to this House, but to the whole nation?

Mr. Morrison

My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister tells me that if in his judgment there is need for a statement to be made today it will be made. But, of course, if the House passes this Motion, the undertaking I gave when the House adjourned for the Summer Recess, in response to statements made by the Opposition, will still stand, as regards the Adjournment between today and 18th October.

Question put, and agreed to.