HC Deb 01 May 1969 vol 782 cc1612-3
49. Mr. Ian Lloyd

asked the Lord President of the Council whether he will move to appoint Select Committees of the House on defence and foreign affairs.

The Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Mr. Fred Peart)

I have carefully noted the hon. Member's suggestions; these are clearly major topics for consideration as subjects for future Select Committees.

Mr. Lloyd

Is there no hope that this haggard and listless Phoenix might be prodded into rising from the ashes of the Government's enthusiasm a little more rapidly?

Mr. Peart

I hope that the hon. Gentleman will appreciate that we have done more than any other Government in setting up Select Committees. Recently, I announced the setting up of one to look into overseas aid.

Mr. Luard

Is my right hon. Friend aware that this Government won considerable good will and credit in the eyes of the public by establishing a number of these Parliamentary Committees, but that there is a real danger that the credit may disappear if the momentum appears to be lost in the coming years? Will he not agree that there is a real need to set up Committees to inquire into important subjects such as those the hon. Gentleman suggests?

Mr. Peart

We have set up a Committee to deal with Scottish affairs and recently I announced the setting up of a Committee on overseas aid. This is still an experimental period. One day, the House will have to decide the future pattern.