§ SIR R. ASSHETON CROSSasked the First Lord of the Treasury, How soon he will be able to fulfil his promise of affording an opportunity of discussing the question of the Cuban Refugees?
§ MR. ARTHUR ARNOLDwished to know whether anything but injury to those concerned could result from the proposed discussion, and whether it ought to be held?
MR. GLADSTONEWith regard to that, it is not a matter that is left to me to decide. When an hon. Member gives Notice of his intention to raise a certain question, the only interference that can be made on the part of the Government is when they anticipate injury to the public interest from the discussion. The right hon. Gentleman was good enough to waive an opportunity which he obtained some time ago for raising the question, the understanding being that another opportunity should be given him. It is, therefore, my business to redeem that pledge, and I propose to do so 1576 when I move the adjournment of the House for the Whitsuntide Vacation. That brings me to the question which I have promised to give an answer to today. We are somewhat divided in mind as to our duty in respect to the amount of Vacation, considering the great pressure of Business. But, on the other hand, there is no precedent for passing through a Session without giving to the House, either at Easter or Whitsuntide, a Vacation of something more than one week. Therefore, I shall move on Friday, the 11th, that the House, at its rising, do adjourn until Monday, the 21st. The Motion on the 11th will be made at 2 o'clock, and the right hon. Gentleman (Sir R. Assheton Cross) will then, have the opportunity w7hich ho desires.