§ CAPTAIN HARRIS moved for a Select Committee to inquire into the Supply of Seamen from the commercial marine to Her Majesty's Fleet, and into the effect of the Registry and Navigation Acts on that supply. He had no intention of obstructing the discussion on the Navigation Laws; but this Committee would not necessarily sit more than a fortnight, it would afford important information, and would bring to a conclusion the labours of the Committee of last Session. He disclaimed all intention of delaying the progress of the Government Motion on the Navigation Laws; but he considered the Committee he moved for was essential, in order to complete the evidence taken before the Committee on the Navigation Laws last Session. The Committee need not sit longer than a fortnight.
§ MR. LABOUCHERE said, that had the hon. and gallant Officer made his Motion at the commencement of the Session, there would have been something in the plea of continuing the evidence of the Committee of last Session. He should, therefore, oppose the Motion, as likely to lead to obstruction to the Government measure on the Navigation Laws.
1253§ MR. BROTHERTON moved that the House do now adjourn.
§ CAPTAIN HARRIS said, that was rather sharp practice. The hon. Member had sat quietly enough until a quarter to one, while the Ministerial measures were under discussion; but the moment a Motion came from the Opposition side of the House, although quite as important, the hon. Member moved the adjournment of the House. He should have moved for the returns earlier in the Session, but he expected the information would be elicited by the Committee of the House of Lords.
§ Motion negatived.
§ House adjourned at a quarter past One.