HC Deb 19 May 1896 vol 40 cc1693-4
* SIR C. DILKE

asked whether it was intended to take the Motion as to the employment of the Indian troops before the question was settled as to which country would pay the ordinary charge?

THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY (Mr. A. J. BALFOUR,) Manchester, E.

said, that it was not necessary to settle which country would bear the charge before the House came to a conclusion in regard to the employment of the troops.

MR. J. MORLEY

said, that the Resolution which was put on the Paper last night by the Secretary for India differed in form from that adopted in 1885, inasmuch as the words "unless funds otherwise provided" had been introduced. They could not discuss that question very well until they understood what other provision besides that made by Parliament was open.

THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY

The right hon. Gentleman will please bear in mind that the object of the Resolution and the protection it gives, is to prevent Indian funds being touched for this purpose, and that object is satisfactorily accomplished by the Resolution, and the question of who has to bear the particular charge will not be affected by the discussion of the Resolution.

* SIR C. DILKE

Is it not the case that the question of the Indian funds is at issue?

THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY

Yes, the Indian funds.

* SIR C. DILKE

The question whether Egypt or India is to pay the ordinary charge being left over, the matter cannot be concluded by the Debate.

THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY

That is not left open. What is left open is whether Egypt or England is to pay.