§ THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY (Mr. A. J. BALFOUR,) Manchester,172 E. First the four Votes for which the Secretary to the Treasury is responsible, and then the Law Charges Vote.
§ MR. DILLONI understood that the arrangement was to take the Law Charges Vote—which is the most important—first.
§ MR. HANBURYPublic Buildings, Railways, Valuation Office, and Office of Works.
§ MR. DILLONSurely it would be only reasonable and convenient that the Law Charges Vote should be taken first. Last year we had no opportunity of discussing it, for it was closured.
§ THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURYI fully appreciate the motives of the honourable Gentleman in making the suggestion, and I will explain exactly why the order I have indicated was proposed. There is a good deal of work to be done in connection with the Local Government Bill by the Chief Secretary and the Attorney General for Ireland, and it is desirable that it should be done when the draftsman can be present. It would be a very great convenience to the Irish Office if the presence of my right honourable Friends were not required in the House while the earlier Votes are taken. Perhaps the difficulty would be met by an undertaking that an opportunity for discussing the Law Charges Vote shall be given, and, if necessary, the Debate on the other Votes shall be adjourned.
§ MR. DILLONAt what hour?
§ THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURYI shall be glad to consult the views of honourable Gentlemen opposite.
§ MR. J. P. FARRELLWill the Debate on Irish Supply be taken on Friday next week?
§ THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURYYes, Sir.