Mr. O'Connellasked if Government had taken the arbitration in the case of Sir Abraham Bradley King into consideration?
§ Lord Althorpsaid, that in moving the Order of the Day for the House resolving itself into a Committee of Supply, he wished to put a question to the right hon. Gentleman opposite. The House was aware that the case of Sir Abraham Bradley King had been referred to the arbitration of two persons by the late Government, but he understood that they nevertheless would not feel themselves bound by the decision of the arbitrators. Now he wished to know from the right hon. Gentleman if he considered that the late Govern- 519 ment would have been bound by the award, for if so he should consider himself bound by it?
Mr. Goulburnsaid, that at first, he had objected to the reference proposed, but had afterwards changed his opinion, and in agreeing to the arbitration, had appointed an officer belonging to the Government to watch its interests. In reply to the noble Lord, he had to say, that if he had remained in office, he should have felt himself bound by the decision of the arbitrators, and would have recommended the House to pay the sum specified.
Mr. O'Connellsaid, that Lord Leveson Gower had stated to him, that the Government was bound to pay the award, and that, if in office, he would have resigned if the payment was refused.
Sir Robert Peelsaid, the conduct of his noble friend would have been perfectly correct. The Government would have been bound by the decision.
§ Lord Althorp, though he originally entertained a different opinion, now thought that the present Government was bound in honour to abide by the decision of the arbitrators.