HC Deb 15 April 1869 vol 195 cc846-7
MR. GLADSTONE

I think, Sir, that the House will probably share the opinion of the Government that the approaching discussion of the Bill on the Irish Church should be proceeded with with as much consecutiveness as may be consistent with the convenience of hon. Members to abate their individual rights to bring forward Motions of which they had given notice. I have already had communication with some of those Gentlemen, and have received from several the courteous answer that they will not stand in our way. I think it would be advantageous to all parties if we could now know whether it is likely that there will be any material delay to-morrow before we could move the continuation of the Committee on the Bill, presuming we get into Committee to-night. The hon. Baronet the Member for North Wiltshire (Sir George Jenkinson) stands first on the list of Notices. I understand he is not disposed to bring on his Motion, provided it be the general intention of Members having similar Notices to give way. I do not see the hon. Baronet in his place; hut, perhaps, I have all ready done as much as may be necessary by suggesting what is probably the general wish, that Members will abstain as much as possible from bringing forward Motions, unless there be some immediate and positive pressure, so that we may be enabled to go forward with the Irish Church Bill.

CAPTAIN GROSVENOR

said, he would not persevere with the Motion of which he had given notice.

MR. HUNT

said, he had placed a Notice on the Paper for a statement regarding Exchequer balances, payments, and receipts, and unless the Chancellor of the Exchequer allowed the Return to be given unopposed it would be necessary for him to make the Motion. He could not postpone it, as he wished the Return to illustrate the operation of the Budget.

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER

said, the Motion imposed on him the duty of predicting the state of future balances, which he could not undertake to do. Perhaps the right hon. Gentleman would be satisfied to take the Return for the past year.

MR. HUNT

said, he believed from his experience at Downing Street that the Return could be prepared. The right hon. Gentleman might suggest any modifications.

MAJOR O'REILLY

said, he was perfectly willing to postpone the Motion of which he had given notice.