§ MR. T. LOUGH (Islington, W.)I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury, when he intends to nominate the Committee with reference to printing contracts.
§ MR. SYDNEY BUXTON (Tower Hamlets, Poplar)Before the right hon. Gentleman answers that question I would like to ask him whether it would not be more satisfactory if, under present circumstances, a Committee with a more extended reference were appointed—namely, one to consider the whole question of the interpretation and administration of the fair wages resolution of 1891—by the respective departments?
§ MR. HANBURYNo doubt, if a Committee on the larger subject were appointed—no decision has been arrived at as to that—it would be more convenient to merge the smaller Inquiry into the larger. On the other hand, there are special reasons why there should be no delay in dealing with the question of the Printing Contracts, because the present arrangement, which was, I think, for 10 years, terminates in December of this year, and therefore we ought to have the Report of the Committee as soon as possible. I will make 459 further inquiries on the subject which the right hon. Gentleman has asked me about.
§ MR. T. LOUGHDo I understand the right hon. Gentleman will appoint the Printing Committee even if he does not acquiesce in the other suggestion which has been made?
§ MR. HANBURYYes; I shall ask for the appointment of that Committee almost as soon as the Debate on the Address is over.