MR. JAMES LOWTHER (Kent, Thanet)May I ask the right hon. Gentleman the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether the Government propose to fulfil the undertaking which they gave with regard to the introduction of a Bill for regulating the immigration of pauper aliens?
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. MATTHEWS,) Birmingham, E.I am not able to name the precise day at 216 this moment. The question is under the active consideration of the Government. It was thought necessary to institute inquiries not only at home, but abroad, before giving definite shape to the measure.
MR. LOWTHERArising out of that answer I should like to ask the right hon. Gentleman whether the Bill will be introduced before Whitsuntide, and I should also like to ask whether, under the circumstances, the Government will afford an opportunity for the discussion of the subject, either by obtaining the withdrawal of the notice which stands on the Paper in the name of my hon. and gallant Friend, or by some other way in which the subject might be brought forward?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURMy right hon. Friend has told the House that it would be impossible to say exactly on what day the Bill may be introduced. But I can assure my right hon. Friend that ample opportunity will be given for the discussion of the subject.