HC Deb 02 April 1883 vol 277 cc1178-9
MR. LABOUCHERE

asked the President of the Board of Trade, After what hour he meant to bring on his Bankruptcy [Compensation for Abolition of Office Resolution?

MR. CHAMBERLAIN

said, it was merely a formal Resolution, and he must take it at any time.

MR. CARBUTT

asked if the right hon. Gentleman could state the sum annually paid as compensation for abolition of offices under the former Bankruptcy Act?

MR. CHAMBERLAIN

said, it was impossible to answer the Question without Notice; but he would be happy to look up the information, and give an answer on Thursday. The Order to which reference had been made was merely to enable them to discuss that clause upon the Bankruptcy Bill, as it provided for compensation in case it should be necessary to abolish existing offices. It was not intended to abolish any such offices; but this Resolution was in anticipation of what might hereafter occur.

MR. CARBUTT

Would this be discussed in the Whole House, or only in Committee?

MR. CHAMBERLAIN

Both.

MR. LABOUCHERE

protested against its being assumed that the Resolution was formal. Many hon. Members objected to compensation being given to officials, who, if their offices were abolished, could be employed in some different capacity.

MR. PULESTON

objected to the Bill being discussed piecemeal before it reached the Committee to which it was to be referred.