asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport if in view of the proposed suspension of the Standing Order, Sittings of the House, on Tuesday, 13th March, he intends, as an experiment to provide transport for hon. Members and members of the staff who may be detained late at the House on that night.

In reply to a question by my bon. Friend on 28th February, I expressed the hope that on all ordinary Parliamentary days, hon. Members and members of the staff would have no difficulty in reaching their homes by the normal services. I added that, if hon. Members would inform the Serjeant at Arms of any special difficulties which they might foresee, I would consult with the authorities of the House about what could be done to overcome them. So far, I have received no communications in response to this suggestion. I am to-day circulating to hon. Members a note on the subject.

Arising out of the circular, which was distributed only half an hour ago—a rather odd and premature way of answering a Question on the Order Paper —could my hon. Friend say whether there will be time for these arrangements to be made to-night, if they are desired?

If I get the information in time I will try to make the arrangements, but unless I have the information I cannot.

Do the arrangements also apply to the staff?

I understand that arrangements have been made for the staff to sleep on the premises.

Why not make arrangements before the need arises?

Mr. J. J. Davidson:

Will my hon. Friend see that if representations are made on behalf of the staff they will be given first consideration; and, secondly, will my hon. Friend recognise that any special privileges given to Members of this House will have a serious effect on the minds of war workers?

The needs of the staff have already been carefully considered, and I understand that arrangements have been made for them. As regards the second part of my hon. Friend's supplementary, I am quite sure that the country will recognise that the work of the House must go on.