§ MR. ROEBUCKasked Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, If he could grant a day for the discussion of the subject of Brewers' Licences?
§ THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUERSir, I entertain great respect both for the hon. and learned Gentleman and the important body on behalf of which he puts the Question, but I may say that it is a matter which is not new. It has been several times under my consideration and under that of the Government. In the first year of our administration, when there was a considerable surplus to be disposed of, the question was raised, but the Government did not meet the views of those who brought it forward. Two years ago a debate was raised in the House, and the House, after a full discussion, by a large majority rejected the Motion. The hon. and learned Gentleman now asks for a day for discussing the propriety of appointing a Select Committee. I should feel it necessary to oppose that Motion, and to state my grounds for doing so—namely, that it could only load to delusive hopes. Under these circumstances I do not consider myself justified in giving up a Government day for the discussion of the proposal.