§ Q6. Mr. Liptonasked the Prime Minister if he will move to rescind the resolution of the House of Commons in 1762 that publication of the speeches of hon. Members is a breach of Privilege.
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir, but if the House were in due course to decide that there should be an inquiry into its privileges generally, this proposal could, no doubt, be looked at at the same time.
§ Mr. LiptonIs it consistent with the principle of freedom of the Press that any journalist reporting speeches in the House is technically guilty of a breach of Privilege? Now that we have a modern Government with modern ideas, how do we sweep away this cobweb without waiting for the Committee of Privileges to pursue its dilatory courses?
§ The Prime MinisterThis particular cobweb is one which the Committee of Privileges should sweep away and not the Government. It is my understanding that talks are going on with a view to such a committee being set up.