§ 35. Mr. John Leeasked the Lord President of the Council if he will introduce legislation to amend the law regarding Privilege and communication between Members of Parliament and Ministers as pronounced by the House in the case of the right hon. Member for Lambeth, Vauxhall.
§ The Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Mr. Herbert W. Bowden)The need for legislation can be examined if, in due course, the House decides to set up a Select Committee to inquire into its Privileges generally.
§ Mr. LeeMay I have an assurance that this will not be a long time forthcoming? It is a matter of very considerable importance that hon. Members should be able to communicate with Ministers about industries under their control without being harassed by the fear of libel actions.
§ Mr. BowdenThere is a long history in this matter, particularly a case eight years ago. I intend to set up a special Select Committee to look into the whole question of Parliamentary Privilege as soon as possible.