§ MR. J. W. BARCLAYasked the Prime Minister, Whether he can say, definitely, whether the Agricultural Holdings (Scotland) Bill is to be taken tonight; and, when the Government will stop Supply for the purpose of proceeding with that Bill?
MR. GLADSTONE, in reply, said, it would be a breach of his general engagements to the House if he were to give any undertaking to stop Supply for the purpose of going on with the discussion of the Agricultural Holdings (Scotland) Bill. There were certain Votes which they must ask the House to give them, and the time necessary for the purpose they must ask the House to appropriate. As to the question of going on with the Bill, the points remaining for discussion, so far as he knew, were of a simple character; and, that being so, he had supposed it might be for the convenience of the House generally, and of Scotch Members in particular, if they availed themselves even of a late hour for the purpose of closing the discussion tonight, if possible. At the same time, it was no part of the desire of the Government to press that upon the House, or upon the Scotch Members. It was entirely an arrangement intended for the general convenience; and if the hon. Member (Mr. J. W Barclay) would communicate with the Lord Advocate, he (Mr. Gladstone) was sure they would be able to arrive jointly at what would be the best arrangement.