THE EARL OF ROSEBERYI wish to ask Her Majesty's Government a Question, of which I have given private Notice. It is to ask, If the Special Sub-Committee appointed to make inquiries as to the best- position for a Scottish harbour of refuge have yet made their Report; whether the Committee on Convict Labour have made any recommendation on the subject; and when the place selected by the Secretary of State will be announced to Parliament?
THE EARL OF DALHOUSIEIn reply to the noble Earl, I have to state that the Special Sub-Committee appointed to report on this question have, I believe, agreed upon their Report. I believe that that Report is now being 1155 printed for the consideration of the General Committee, and I have every reason to hope that it will not be long before it will be in the hands of the Secretary of State.