HC Deb 02 March 1893 vol 9 c839
MR. HOZIER (Lanarkshire, S.)

I beg to ask the First Lord of the Treasury whether the Suspensory Bill for the Church of Scotland is to be introduced next week; and, if not, when?

MR. W. E. GLADSTONE

It is not to be introduced next week, but due notice will be given.

SIR JAMES FERGUSSON (Manchester, N.E.)

In view of the great agitation and distress that have been caused by the intended attack upon the oldest Institution of the country, will the right hon. Gentleman be so good as to name some day for the introduction of the Bill, or some day before which it will not be introduced?

MR. DALZIEL (Kirkcaldy, &c.)

Is it not the fact that the people of Scotland, by an overwhelming majority, through their Representatives, have declared in favour of this Bill?

MR. W. E. GLADSTONE

A large majority of the Representatives of Scotland are favourable to some change in the Ecclesiastical arrangements of that country, which is in the nature of Disestablishment. An opinion in that sense was declared on the part of Representatives of Scotland in the last Parliament. With respect to the Bill, I have stated that it will not be introduced before the end of next week, and I shall take care that no hon. Member shall suffer inconvenience with respect to the matter.