§ MR. KELLYI beg to ask the First Lord of the Treasury whether he is aware that, though two attempts were made to form a quorum of the Standing Committee on Law yesterday the 2nd instant, at half-past twelve and again at half-past one, the Chairman had, in consequence of only ten Members out of the whole number of eighty -three being present, to declare the Committee adjourned; whether he is aware that the Committee now stands adjourned sine die; and whether, in view of the fact that it is now impossible for the Evidence in Criminal Cases Bill to pass this Session, he will take the necessary steps for causing that measure to be withdrawn from further consideration by such Standing Committee?
§ COLONEL HOWARD VINCENT (Sheffield, Central)Before the right hon. Gentleman answers this question, may I ask whether, having regard to the great importance of this Bill, and also the length of time it has been before Parliament, the right hon. Gentleman will make every possible effort to pass it into law this Session; and further whether he would give directions for the issue of a Government Whip for the sitting of the Committee?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURI am very desirous that this Bill should pass into law. It is, no doubt, a fact that at the last meeting of the Standing Committee no quorum was made. I do not absolutely give up all hope of passing the measure, but we all know that any delay which occurs at such a critical period must greatly imperil the final passing of the measure.
§ COLONEL HOWARD VINCENTWill the Grand Committee sit on Thursday next?
§ MR. BALFOURI doubt whether the Grand Committee will be fortunate enough to get a quorum on Thursday next.
§ COLONEL NOLAN (Galway, N.)May I ask a question—
§ MR. SPEAKERUpon the same subject?
§ COLONEL NOLANI want to ask whether Captain Lugard—
§ MR. SPEAKEROrder, order!