§ Mr. Hughesasked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been drawn to a speech of the right hon. Member for Ross and Cromarty (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald) in Canada publicly airing his opinions upon the future leaders of Government and parties in this country and discussing their qualities; and whether he will inform High Commissioners that such speeches are not consonant with the duties and status of their appointment.
§ The Prime MinisterI understand that the subject of the address in question was British Statesmanship, and it included a series of brief biographical sketches of some of the represèntative contemporary political leaders in this country. Some summarised reports of the speech have not represented accurately what was said; for it was made clear that the names mentioned were not in any way a comprehensive list. Inquiries were made of my right hon. Friend the Member for Ross and Cromarty (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald), who recognises that the theme of his speech went outside the usual sphere of a High Commissioner, and has expressed his unqualified regret at any misunderstanding which his remarks may have caused.