§ MR. MELLORasked the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies. When the Return relating to the cost of the several Colonies of the British Empire, for the years 1869–70, 1870–71, 1871–2, and 1872–3, which was moved for on the 17th July 1873, will be presented?
§ MR. J. LOWTHERSir, the preparation of the Return is a work of considerable difficulty, and particulars have yet to be received from several Departments. All possible dispatch will be used, but it is not at present possible to say how soon the Return can be presented.