MR. P. WOODI rise to put a question to the noble Lord at the head of the Government, arising out of the report of the Select Committee upon the oaths of Members. That report simply states the different Acts of Parliament relating to the question referred to them, the determinations of this House, and of the courts of law upon that question. It expresses no opinion upon the subject; and no doubt the precise legal effect of those determinations may be matters upon which there 977 may be a good deal of difference of opinion. But I wish to ask the noble Lord whether it is the intention of Her Majesty's Government to propose any measure, during the present Session, with reference to the oaths now administered to Members on taking their seats in this House?
§ LORD J. RUSSELLIn answer to the question of the hon. and learned Gentleman, I have to say that it is the intention of Her Majesty's Government to introduce such a measure during the present Session of Parliament. I hope the state of public business will permit of my doing so at an early opportunity, and I will state the particular nature of the measure before introducing it.