§ Mr. Wallacewished to ask a question as to the progress of the commercial treaty with Portugal, as great anxiety was manifested to know whether there was to be a treaty or no treaty?
§ Sir Robert Peelreplied, that he was sorry he was not able at that moment to give any information as to a final arrangement. He would, however, tell the hon. Member the state in which the negotiations stood. Some time since it was intimated that the negotiations should be brought to a close, and they informed the government of Portugal of their views as to the mode in which there could be increased commercial relations between the two countries; they stated also that to the propositions then made they must adhere substantially. They had received a reply making considerable advances, but they were not deemed satisfactory. By the last mail they had intimated to the government of Portugal, that they adhered to their former terms, and he apprehended that by the next mail he should be able to give a definite answer to the hon. Gentleman's question.