§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS (VISCOUNT ADDISON)My Lords, I should like to acquaint your Lordships with the fact that I have received a letter this morning in the following terms:
§ "Dear Addison,
§ You will no doubt remember that when I notified to you that I thought the time had come for me to tender to the House my resignation from the post of Chairman of Committees, you requested me to carry on the duties of Chairman until the end of this month. I am now writing to intimate my resignation officially as from that date, as you will no doubt wish to put a Motion on the Paper for the appointment of my successor.
§ I need not say how much I regret to feel that the time has come for me to lay down these duties, the discharge of which has been made so pleasant the kindness and consideration which I have received from yourself and from all quarters of the House.
§ Yours very sincerely,
§ Stanmore."
§ I think it would be appropriate at the first convenient opportunity to take note of this letter from the noble Lord, Lord Stanmore. We will arrange the time in consultation with the Leaders of Parties of the House.
§ VISCOUNT SWINTONMy Lords, so far as we are concerned, that would be a most convenient course and I am obliged to the noble Viscount, the Leader of the House, for suggesting it.