HC Deb 22 February 1856 vol 140 c1221
SIR DE LACY EVANS

said, he hoped the Government would allow the House a few days more for the consideration of the Army Estimates, which had been placed upon the paper for that night. They were of peculiar importance; for they were different from former Estimates, and they had not been circulated many days.

VISCOUNT PALMERSTON

said, although the Estimates were so far new in form that one body of papers contained what was formerly in different Estimates, yet each part was very nearly the same as it always had been, especially with regard to the Army Estimates. Money being required for the public service, the Government intended to take a Vote on account, and he therefore hoped the House would allow them to proceed with the Estimates.

SIR DE LACY EVANS

said, notwithstanding the explanation of the noble Lord, he really must press for further delay.

VISCOUNT PALMERSTON

said, he had stated on the first day of the Session the course which the Government intended to take. They proposed to lay on the table Estimates framed for the whole year, on the supposition that the war would continue, but, considering that negotiations were about to begin, they would, in the first place, only ask Parliament to vote a portion of those Estimates relating to matters not affected by peace or war. Those sums having been voted on account, they would be obliged, in case either of peace or war, to come to Parliament for the remainder of the Estimates, and hon. Gentlemen would then have a further opportunity of discussing them.

SIR DE LACY EVANS

said, that there was a very important proposition for a certain number of men and animals for the Land Transport service, and probably the Government would allow the House a little time for the consideration of that matter.