§ LORD J. RUSSELLThe hon. Gentleman the Member for Middlesex has given notice of a Motion, for which I believe no day is fixed, with respect to the defences of the country. I shall have shortly after the recess to state, on the part of the Government, both what has been done and what is proposed to be done upon that important matter; and it seems to me that it would be better for the public interest that the subject should come from a Member of the Government, than that it should be brought forward by an independent Member of this House. Of course, if the hon. Member is not satified with my statement, it will be in his power, at any time, to make his Motion; but I have to request of him that he will postpone it till he has heard that statement.
§ MR. B. OSBORNEcould have no hesitation in complying with the request.