§ SIR MICHAEL HICKS-BEACH (Bristol, W.)I gave Notice yesterday to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, that I intended to-day to ask the Government, whether they were able to make any statement to the House as to the relations between the Great Powers and Greece, and when Papers on the subject would be presented?
§ THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY (Mr. W. E. GLADSTONE) (Edinburgh, Mid Lothian)In answer to the Question of the right hon. Baronet, I have to say, as the right hon. Gentleman and the House is well aware, a Collective Note, on the part of the Powers, was addressed to Greece, and a time was fixed within which an answer would be received, or other consequences would follow. That time expired at 5 o'clock yesterday afternoon; and, since then, we have received no definite news whatever. Under the circumstances, the House will see that it is obvious the time has not arrived for me to make any further reply, though, probably, I may be able to do so before any length of time has elapsed. But this I may say, that the answer that was sent by the Government of Greece to the Collective Note, and which has been before each of the Powers, is, in the opinion of all of them, not an adequate, or a satisfactory one. As to Papers, it is difficult to say, just now, when it will be most convenient to present them; but I may say that in a very short time indeed, Papers will be presented, and in two or three days I shall be able to give a more definite answer.
§ SIR MICHAEL HICKS-BEACHPerhaps I will repeat the Question on Thursday.
§ MR. GLADSTONEI will do what I can.