HC Deb 08 April 1853 vol 125 cc808-9

On the Question that the House resolve into Committee on the Consolidated Fund and National Debt Redemption Acts.

LORD JOHN RUSSELL

said, that as the hon. Member for North Lancashire (Mr. Patten) had stated his inability to continue to perform the duties of Chairman of Ways and Means, he moved that Mr. Bouverie should take the Chair.

MR. HUME

said, he thought that before this change took place, the House ought to hear from the hon. Member for North Lancashire how the difficulty arose that prevented him getting through with the private business of the House. He believed that alterations might be made greatly to facilitate the transaction of the business.

MR. FITZSTEPHEN FRENCH

said, he wished to inquire whether Mr. Bouverie was to take the chair for the present night only, or permanently? [Cries of "Permanently."]

Lone JOHN RUSSELL

said, that the late Chairman of Committees had communicated to him that he wished to make some observations on the state of private business; but he did not understand that the hon. Gentleman was yet in a condition to make a statement that would lead to a satisfactory conclusion.