HC Deb 16 June 1899 vol 72 c1338
SIR T. GIBSON - CARMICHAEL (Edinburgh, MidLothian)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the Committee of Inquiry upon the Newfoundland Fisheries, of which Admiral Sir James Erskine was appointed chairman, has yet reported; and whether the desire which exists for the publication of the Report is likely to be gratified at an early date.

MR. J. CHAMBERLAIN

The Commission of Inquiry into the Newfoundland Fisheries, of which Sir John Bramston was Chairman, has reported. It is not desirable to publish the Report until the Departments concerned have had time to make their observations upon the statements and recommendations of the Commissioners, and Her Majesty's Government have arrived at a decision upon them after consultation with the Colonial Government.

MR. GIBSON BOWLES (Lynn Regis)

Can the right hon. Gentleman state approximately the time when the Report may be expected?

MR. CHAMBERLAIN

No, Sir; but I fear it will be some considerable time.