HC Deb 04 July 1879 vol 247 cc1418-9
SIB GEORGE CAMPBELL

Before putting the Question which stands in my name, I should like to explain why I have thought it right to trouble the Chancellor of the Exchequer with an inquiry upon the matter. I do so on the part of many friends and followers of the late Lord Lawrence, who wish to pay a tribute of respect to the memory of the distinguished public man, but do not know how they are to do so. They are told by the newspapers that admission to the funeral will be by ticket. [" Order ! "] This is an important matter, and I hope the House will allow me to explain the Question. I put it in a formal way, because I think it very desirable that a public announcement should be made in the matter. My Question is as follows:—To ask Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, If he can be so good as to inform the House what are the arrangements for the funeral of the late Lord Lawrence in Westminster Abbey on Saturday, so that Members of Parliament and others wishing to attend may have an opportunity of doing so?

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER

Mr. Speaker, I hardly expected that this Question would have been asked after the information that has been communicated to the House through your kindness. I must remind the hon. Gentleman and the House that the funeral of Lord Lawrence is not a public funeral, and that the Government are in no way responsible for the arrangements. Those arrangements are made by the Dean of 'Westminster, and any information that is desired should be sought from the Dean. It would be conveying a false impression, if I were to attempt to answer any Question on the subject. All that can be said is that, in consequence of the information that has been sought by you, Sir, we are told that seats will be provided for Members of this House who may wish to attend on their presenting their cards at the door. That is mentioned in the notice.

SIR GEORGE CAMPBELL

said, unfortunately, he did not see the notice which the Speaker had been good enough to put up. Had he done so, probably he should not have asked the Question.