§ LORD ELCHOasked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Whether it is true that the Budget Committee, recently appointed at the instigation of Sir Evelyn Baring in Egypt, has, on the grounds of economy, recommended the dismissal of numerous Native employés; whether it is true that Nubar Pasha has declined to consent to the proposal, alleging, as arguments against it, its certain unpopularity, as well as the uncertain duration of the term of the British occupation; and, whether, if this is true, Her Majesty's Government intend in this instance to compel the Native Ministry to follow the advice of Her Majesty's representatives in Egypt?
LORD EDMOND EITZMAURICESir, at the suggestion of Sir Evelyn Baring, a Committee was appointed early in the year by the Egyptian Government, with a view to effect reductions in the proposed Expenditure of 1884. Two Reports have been received which deal with the Ministries of Finance, Justice, Public Works, War and Marine, and with the Packet Post and Customs Services. Various reforms and reductions are proposed; but until the inquiry is completed, it is not possible to say how far these proposals will be adopted, nor to what officials the reductions will apply. Her Majesty's Government is not aware that Nubar Pasha has expressed any opinion on the proposals, and is not acquainted with what advice Sir Evelyn Baring may have given on the subject.
§ SIR H. DRUMMOND WOLFFWill the noble Lord lay the Report upon the Table at once?
§ LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICENo, Sir; not at once, but in the ordinary course.
§ LORD RANDOLPH CHURCHILLWhy not?