§ MR. BUCHANAN (Edinburgh, W.)I beg to ask the First Lord of the Treasury whether, in the appropriation of the Scottish share of the fund under the Local Taxation (Customs and Excise) Duties Bill, he will endeavour to meet the views of the large majority of Scottish Members of all parties, and reserve a sufficient sum to free all the standards in the State-aided Schools in Scotland?
§ MR. SEXTONI have also to ask the right hon. Gentleman whether the Government, having regard to the evidence of Irish opinion afforded by the introduction of the Agricultural Labourers (Ireland) Bill now before the House, and the proceedings upon that measure, will appropriate the unallotted balance of Ireland's share of the Local 325 Taxation (Customs and Excise) Duties, in aid of the provision of dwellings for Irish agricultural labourers, upon the principles indicated in the Bill?
§ *MR. W. H. SMITHI can only repeat that the Government are considering the whole subject; but I am not yet in a position to give any pledges.
§ MR. SEXTONI beg to give notice that if any attempt is made to use Ireland's share of the money, not for local purposes, but for ordinary Imperial purposes, the proposal will be opposed.
§ MR. STOREYMay I ask whether among the projects of the Government is included the project of putting an end to the enhanced duty on beer and spirits?
§ *MR. W. H. SMITHThe suggestions which the Government have received on the subject are almost as numerous as those received by the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he was about to bring in his Budget. All the suggestions are receiving the consideration of the Government. I am not able to say when I shall be able to announce the decision of the Government.
§ MR. SEXTONWhen may I put a further question?
§ *MR. W. H. SMITHI am unable to say at present.