MR. A. R. D. ELLIOTTI wish to ask the Prime Minister a Question of which I have given him private Notice. It is, Whether any opportunity will be given to the House of discussing the arrangements between the Government and the Leaders of the Opposition in regard to redistribution before the introduction of the Government measure?
MR. GLADSTONENo, Sir; there is not the least intention on the part of the Government to afford such an opportunity. Indeed, it appears to me that it would be highly inconvenient to 281 the House if such a course were pursued. After the Redistribution of Seats Bill is introduced the House will have an opportunity of passing judgment on its provisions, and then it will have a chance of saying whether it approves or disapproves of any arrangement that may be made; but if a discussion were raised before the Redistribution Bill is introduced, there would be no matter for the House to discuss.