HC Deb 05 March 1895 vol 31 cc391-2
SIR S. KING (Hull, Central)

I have a question on this paper addressed to the Secretary of State for India as to the grievances of the Indian Staff Corps, but I do not see the right hon. Gentleman present. I beg to ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, as Leader of the House whether he will make arrangements for Questions addressed to the Secretary of State for India to be answered.

MR. J. G. TALBOT (Oxford University)

said, it would be a convenience if they could be informed when Ministers were to be absent. Members came down to put questions, and it was not too much to ask that they might be informed if it was not convenient to answer. ["Hear, hear," and "Oh."]

SIR W. HARCOURT

I think the hon. Member is a little exacting. I only heard about a half an. hour ago that the Secretary for War is disabled. Unfortunately these maladies occur rather suddenly, and I regret to see absentees from the Front Bench opposite. We really have no control in this matter.

MR. TALBOT

But a note might be left with the doorkeeper.

SIR W. HARCOURT

I hope the hon. Member and his friends will have a little consideration.

MR. GOSCHEN (St. George's, Hanover Square)

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell us what business will be taken on Thursday and Friday?

SIR W. HARCOURT

We propose to go on with the Estimates on Thursday, and on Friday we shall propose to go on with some of the smaller Bills.

MR. J. CHAMBERLAIN (Birmingham, W.)

Are we to have the Local Veto Bill before Easter; and, if so, will the right lion. Gentleman state what day?

SIR W. HARCOURT

I cannot say what day, but certainly before Easter.

SIR C. DILKE (Gloucester, Forest of Dean)

Are we to understand that the Supplementary Estimates will first be finished?

SIR W. HARCOURT

Certainly.

SIR C. DILKE

I suppose some notice will be given whether it is intended to take the Army or Navy Estimates first?

SIR W. HARCOURT

I do not imagine we can take them this week.

MR. BRODRICK (Surrey, Guildford)

Which will be taken first?

SIR W. HARCOURT

Probably the Army Eestimates will be taken first. We are in this unfortunate condition, that at this moment the Secretary for War and the Secretary for the Navy are both laid up.