§ 49. Mr. Lewisasked the Prime Minister whether he is now in a position to make a statement about the Government's proposals for reform of the House of Lords.
§ 50. Mr. Grimondasked the Prime Minister what proposals he now has for the reform of the House of Lords.
§ The Prime MinisterThis matter is under consideration by Her Majesty's Government, but I have no statement to make at present.
§ Mr. LewisHas the Prime Minister's attention been drawn to various Press reports that the Government are a little worried because 800 of the wealthier Peers are not turning up to do their duty in the House of Lords, and that he is considering paying them £2 or £3 a day attendance money? If that is the case, will he bear in mind the activities of his predecessor in a similar matter and discuss the subject with the 1922 Committee, to prevent a possible revolt on its part?
§ The Prime MinisterI am glad that the hon. Gentleman is such a diligent reader of the newspapers. For my part, the Answer which I have given represents the policy of Her Majesty's Government.
§ Mr. GrimondWill the Prime Minister bear in mind that, if he comes to the conclusion that it is necessary to breathe any new life into the House of Lords by paying allowances or in any other way, it will be very unacceptable if the other House remains for ever the preserve of one party only?
§ The Prime MinisterI thought it was the only place where there were large numbers of Liberals still extant.