asked the Prime Minister what decision the Government have come to in regard to the House of Lords decision on the Rent Restrictions Act?

A small Cabinet Committee has been appointed to consider this subject, but it is impossible that their Report should be ready in time to enable it to be dealt with this Session. I have, however, no doubt that the result of the inquiry will convince the Government that legislation is required, and in that case the necessary legislation will be carried out as early as possible next Session, and it will, of course, be retrospective.

Would the right hon. Gentleman have appointed a Cabinet Committee in the event of the decision having been the other way?

Most certainly. If the decision had been for the benefit of the landlord in the same way as it had been for the benefit of the tenant, I should certainly have appointed a Committee.

Has any request been received from the tenants of property in this country for a Cabinet Committee of this kind?

I should think the subject is one more easily dealt with when the Bill is introduced than by question and answer.

In view of the chaotic condition that will arise between now and the time when the Report will be ready—[An HON. MEMBER: "And after!"]—is it possible to bring in a short Measure establishing a moratorium in the meantime?

It is a crematorium you want?

We have considered that, but it is my opinion that the announcement that I have just made will prevent what the hon. and gallant Gentleman anticipates.

Will the Cabinet Committee inquire into the whole of the circumstances, not only to what extent misunderstandings have happened in Scotland, but the question and difficulties of landlords and small occupiers?

No, Sir. This Committee is only to consider this very limited question. The other questions are also under the consideration of the Government.