HC Deb 07 August 1896 vol 44 cc114-5
MR J. H. DALZIEL (Kirkcaldy Burghs)

asked whether the Motion to nominate the South African Committee would be taken to-night?

THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY

said it would not be taken tonight or to-morrow.

MR. T. M. HEALY

I wish to ask the First Lord of the Treasury whether he has taken note of the fact that there is only one Irish Member nominated on this Committee, and whether the nearest proportion to which the Irish Party are entitled is two? I would also ask whether one Member has been deducted from the Opposition or from the Government?

THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY

From the Government.

MR. T. M. HEALY

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether the Whips of the Irish Party have consented to this arrangement?

MR. JOHN DILLON (Mayo, E.)

rose to ask a further Question, when

*MR. SPEAKER said

This is raising a Debate on a subject which can be discussed when the names of the Committee are submitted to the House. ["Hear, hear!"]

MR. T. M. HEALY

asked whether there should not be an original Motion put from the Chair that the Committee should consist of 15 Members, so as to give hon. Members an opportunity of moving an Amendment with a view to increasing the number?

THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY

I believe precedent has been strictly followed. When the Committee about to be nominated does not exceed 15 Members, it is not usual to specify the number.

MR. T. M. HEALY

May I ask whether it would be in order to move at the commencement, when the Motion came on, that this Committee do consist of 17 Members?

*MR. SPEAKER

Notice must be given of any Amendment of that kind.

MR. T. M. HEALY

With notice it can be done?

*MR. SPEAKER

With notice the hon. Member can propose to add other Members, if the House increases the number of the Committee.

MR. T. M. HEALY

I suppose the Government would have no objection, in view of the importance of this Committee, to postpone the consideration of it until Monday?

THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY

I do not propose to take it tonight if it is seriously opposed.

MR. A. O'CONNOR (Donegal, E.)

May I ask you, Sir, whether it will not be open to any hon. Member to propose the addition of any names to the Committee?

*MR. SPEAKER

Notice must be given of such a Motion, as I have said.