MR. PATRICK O'BRIENasked Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has yet received an application for the Stewardship of the Chiltern Hundreds from the Member for Rochester (Colonel Hughes-Hallett; and, if so, has it been granted?
§ *MR. GOSCHENNo application has been received.
§ MR. SEXTONWill the right hon. Gentleman state what is the rule with regard to a Member vacating his seat by being absent without leave; and whether any communication has passed between Colonel Hughes-Hallett and the Patronage Secretary to the Treasury?
§ *MR. GOSCHENI am unable to answer the question. The general rule with regard to the acceptance of the Chiltern Hundreds is laid down in "May's Parliamentary Practice."