§ MR. DAVID THOMASI beg to ask the First Lord of the Treasury whether it is the intention of the Government to introduce this Session any measure providing for the exercise of more effective disciplinary power over clergymen who are unfit occupants of their livings, having regard to the statements made by the Prime Minister two years ago that some such measure ought to be passed by Parliament without loss of time; that it was a matter of much interest in Wales; and that the cost of putting the present Law into operation was "practically prohibitive?"
§ THE FIRST LORD OF the TREASURY (Mr. W. H. SMITH, Strand, Westminster)A Bill dealing with Church discipline was passed through the House of Lords in the Session of 1888; but it was not proceeded with in this House, as there appeared to be little probability 1514 that it could be passed into law without an amount of time which was not then at the disposal of the Government; but if I am to understand from the hon. Gentleman's question that there would be a disposition on the part of hon. and right hon. Gentlemen opposite to assist in passing such a measure, I will communicate with my friends in another place, and I have no doubt the desired opportunity will be afforded.