HC Deb 20 February 1967 vol 741 cc1146-7
37. Mr. Gwynfor Evans

asked the Lord President of the Council what proposals he now has to enable hon. Members to take the oath in the Welsh language.

Mr. Crossman

My predecessor asked the Select Committee on Procedure to look at this matter, and I think we should await any report it may produce.

Mr. Evans

Is the Leader of the House aware that on 9th March next the people of the famous Rhondda Valley may rouse Wales and shake the Government by returning again to Parliament a Plaid Cymru candidate, and that this matter of taking the oath in Welsh has some urgency?

Mr. Crossman

I am aware that this most skilfully drafted Question gives a great chance for propaganda statements.

Mr. G. Elfed Davies

Is my right hon. Friend aware that I understand that the Plaid Cymru candidate for Rhondda, West does not speak Welsh?

Mr. Evans

On a point of order. May I say that my friend the Plaid Cymru candidate is Welsh-speaking—

Mr. Speaker

Order. With all deference to Wales, that is not a point of order.