If I had to choose between the interests of the dignity of the House of Commons and its freedom I would pronounce for its freedom. It could not enjoy real dignity unless its debates were free.
1905, 15 March.
Five or ten years’ experience as a Member of this House is as fine an all-round education in public affairs as any man can obtain.
1941, 27 February.
The House of Commons sis the citadel of British liberty; it is the foundation of our laws; its traditions and privileges are as lively today as when it broke the arbitrary power of the Crown and substituted that Constitutional Monarchy under which we have enjoyed so many blessingss. I do not know how else this country can be governed than by the House of Commons playing its part in all its broad freedom in British public life.
1943, 28 October.
The House of Commons is a living and deathless entity which survived unflinchingly the tests and hazards of war. It preserved our constitutional liberties under our ancient monarchy in a manner which has given a sense of stability, not only in this island but as an example to nations in many landssan institution which all the world recognises as one of the great features of the modern civilised world.
1948, 26 May.
WSC was speaking at the laying of the foundation-stone of the new House of Commons, a faithful replica of the original which had been destroyed by German bombs in 1941.
It is not necessarily a humiliation to a Government to defer to the House of Commons’ feelings and to genuine sense established in debates, provided that it does not sacrifice any moral principle or inflict injury or injustice on the public.
1952, 11 October, Scarborough.
World History
