HC Deb 18 June 1846 vol 87 cc636-7
The CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER

I am anxious to take this opportunity of stating to the House the course I intend to pursue with respect to the sugar duties. Owing to the length of time to which the debate has been protracted on the Bill for the Protection of Life in Ireland, a sufficient period does not remain to enter into a proper discussion of that (the sugar) question. The various Amendments which have been put upon the Paper clearly indicate that it will occupy a considerable period of time. It is, therefore, my intention on Monday to move a Resolution continuing the sugar duties for the period of a month from the 5th of July, that is until the 6th of August in the present year, Of course, I shall do so reserving all discussion on the subject until the question is satisfactorily opened, when the discussion shall take place upon it. I shall be desirous, if the House have no objection, to introduce the reduction for free-labour sugar, which was mentioned by my right hon. Friend at the early part of the Session; but if there shall be any objection felt to it, I shall also postpone it for the period of a month from the 5th of July, in order to give time.

MR. HUME

thought it would be better to take the duties as they then were for one month.

The CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER

It is better, then, say I will continue them for one month from the 5th of July.