HC Deb 05 March 1957 vol 566 cc176-7
45. Mr. Lewis

asked the Prime Minister what alternative proposals he has to make to deal with the problem of Members' salaries.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Harold Macmillan)

I take it that the hon. Gentleman means alternative to a Select Committee. I am not at the moment making proposals on this matter.

Mr. Lewis

I welcome the fact that the Prime Minister is not at the moment making a statement, but will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that in 1953–54 a unanimous Report was presented to the Government, which accepted it, and it was also accepted by the House on a free vote; and that now we are confronted with the ludicrous position that Members who have no incomes have to stay to man Standing Committees, and put themselves to additional expense, in order to enable hon. Members who have incomes from outside to go out and earn that money? Is that fair or right?

The Prime Minister

I am bearing in mind all the relevant matters.