§ MR. W. H. SMITHasked the First Lord of the Treasury, If he can now inform the House when the statement of the Government as to the Naval defences of the Country will be made to the House?
MR. GLADSTONEI believe, Sir, that the Admiralty will be ready with the promised statement certainly on Tuesday, the 25th, probably on Monday, the 24th. I have not yet received a final answer on that subject; but perhaps Monday will be the better day.
§ MR. W. H. SMITHIs it the intention of the Government to propose a Supplementary Estimate, so as to afford the House an opportunity for discussion?
MR. GLADSTONEWe will take care to find an opportunity for discussion; but Monday would be the preferable day, as the Government have the command of it without the interposition of any other question. [After consulting with Lord Richard Grosvenor, Mr. Gladstone proceeded.] I understand from my noble Friend, who has more recently heard from the First Lord, that Monday, the 24th, will do quite well. I cannot promise to bring forward a Supplementary Estimate.