§ 50. Mr. V. Yatesasked the Prime Minister if he will consider proposing a standing order to the House with the object of modifying the existing practice by which Privy Councillors have a preference in debates.
§ The Prime MinisterNo. Sir. I do not think the House would wish to disturb its long-standing practice.
§ Mr. YatesWill not the Prime Minister examine what has been happening in the past few weeks? It has now become practically impossible for back benchers on either side of the House—especially in one-day debates—to have any say whatsoever. Is not this undemocratic?
§ The Prime MinisterI have listened to a good many speeches by back benchers who were not Privy Councillors in recent weeks. This is a very old subject of discussion. I do not think it would be right for me to try to give an answer or make a decision myself. This is a matter, like many of the conventions of the House, which must be settled between all parties and by the general will of the House.
§ Mr. ChetwyndIf the Privy Councillors cannot exercise restraint, could not we all be made Privy Councillors?
§ The Prime MinisterThose who are aware of the Privy Councillors' oath will know that one purpose of it is that they should exercise considerable restraint.