LORD RONALD GOWERasked Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Whether there is any probability of the pension granted by Government to Lady Mayo and her children out of the Indian Revenue being increased out of the Imperial Exchequer?
§ THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUERSir, the noble Lord put the Question to me without Notice on two previous occasions; but, as I had been unable to consult with the other Members of the Government, I was compelled to postpone my reply. Having now had the opportunity of consulting them, I have to state to the noble Lord that the hon. Member for Waterford (Mr. Osborne) having thought proper to give Notice of a Motion on the question, the Government think it most proper and respectful to the House to reserve any statement of their opinion till that discussion comes on.
§ MR. OSBORNEI beg, Sir, to ask the First Minister of the Crown, in con- 892 sequence of the extraordinary answer just given by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if he will give me a night for bringing the subject forward?
MR. GLADSTONESir, it is not in my power, in consequence of the state of Public Business, to give a Government night for the Motion referred to; but the hon. Member for Waterford is aware that Friday, on the question of going into Committee of Supply, is appropriated by the House to questions which it may seem desirable to bring forward on short notice.
§ MR. OSBORNEThen, Sir, I will take advantage of that opportunity.