HC Deb 09 August 1911 vol 29 cc1149-50
Mr. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAIN

Perhaps it will be convenient for me to now ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer to make a general statement as to the course of business?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

My reply will cover the question of the right hon. Gentleman and also the question put by the hon. Member for Mile End. After consultation with the different parties in the House, it has been thought more convenient to finish the discussion of the Resolution as to payment of Members to-morrow, Thursday, night. Another opportunity will arise for the discussion of the subject on Monday, when in Committee of Supply a Supplementary Estimate for payment of Members will be considered. In order to effect this and to comply with the Standing Orders, a special Resolution will be necessary. This will be put on the Paper to-night and taken first thing to-morrow. I am encouraged to think that it will be passed without any discussion. On Friday we shall proceed with the Indian High Courts Bill, the Government of India Bill, the Labourers (Ireland) Bill, the Pensions (Governors of Dominions) Bill, and the Telephone Transfer Bill. On Monday, as I have already stated, we shall discuss the Supplementary Estimate on Payment of Members. This is the last day but one in Supply, and the outstanding Votes will be taken at 10 o'clock. Tuesday will be the last day of Supply, and the Reports of the Votes will be taken at 10 o'clock. The Prime Minister will make a further statement in the beginning of the week as to the concluding business of this part of the Session, and as to the date of reassembling for the Winter Session.

Mr. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAIN

Is the Tight hon. Gentleman able to say whether he proposes to proceed further with the Finance Bill during this part of the Session?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I would rather leave that question for the Prime Minister when he returns on Monday.

Mr. JAMES HOPE

In view of the complexity of the questions involved in the Telephone Transfer Bill, and the strong feeling there is on the subject, does the right hon. Gentleman really think it necessary to take it on Friday?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I do not think that really there is very much complexity about it. There is only one outstanding point. I understand that it is in the interests of the telephone service that this Bill should be passed at the earliest possible moment, and I think that will be for the general convenience of the business community. This arrangement was made after consultation in the usual way with the Noble Lord opposite.

Mr. JAMES HOPE

Is it certain to be reached?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I do not think the first Order will take very long, and there is no reason why the hon. Member should not state his views fully.

Mr. BUTCHER

Will the Report stage of the Naval Prize Bill be taken next week or during the Autumn Session?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I think the hon. Member had better put that question to the Prime Minister.