HC Deb 17 August 1860 vol 160 cc1460-1
MR. MALINS

said, he wished to ask Whether the Government really intend to proceed with the New Zealand Bill this Session? All the colonists now in London were against the Bill, and there really was no urgency for upsetting a system which had been in use for twenty years.

SIR GEORGE LEWIS

said, the Bill was introduced in the other House by the noble Duke who presided over the Colonial Department, and was now temporarily absent. The Bill was considered by the other House, and sent to the Commons at a period which, though certainly late, admitted of its being considered. The only answer that he could give to the question of the hon. and learned Member was, that he thought no advantage would arise from anticipating the debate which Her Majesty's Government intended to bring on on Monday evening.