§ 46. Mr. Grimondasked the Prime Minister if he will move for a Select Committee to consider to what extent the Tribunals of Inquiry (Evidence) Act, 1921, is adequate for the investigation 1293 of situations of the type which have arisen lately, particularly the alleged Bank Rate and Waters' cases, or how far new procedures are needed, and to recommend what these should be.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerI have been asked to reply.
The Government do not think that the present moment is suitable for the inquiry suggested in the hon. Member's Question. They are, however, prepared to give careful consideration to the question of amending the 1921 Act in the light of the experience gained of its operation.
§ Mr. GrimondWhile appreciating that this may be an inconvenient moment for definite action, may I thank the Leader of the House for his undertaking to reconsider the matter and ask him, in view of the widespread anxiety about the use of this Act in certain cases, whether he will consider making time available for a general discussion in this House as to when it is appropriate to use this procedure, if at all?
§ Mr. ButlerI cannot give an undertaking about time, nor do I think this would be a suitable moment while a certain inquiry is proceeding, but I have indicated in the latter part of my Answer that we are prepared to give this matter consideration, and I think we should all get together and consider what is the best course.