HC Deb 09 May 1899 vol 71 cc158-9
MR. SCHWANN (Manchester, N.)

What is the business for Friday?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

Perhaps I had better make a general statement. Friday, under ordinary circumstances, would be devoted to Supply, but the Secretary to the Treasury is not yet able to be in his place, and though I am glad to think my right hon. friend is nearly recovered, a heavy night's Estimates would be beyond his powers. Under the circumstances, I will ask the House to depart from the usual practice, and continue the discussion of the Finance Bill, should that not be finished on Thursday. On Friday, next week, I propose that after the evening sitting the House shall adjourn for the Whitsuntide holidays, the Votes in Committee of Supply set down for that day being of a non-controversial character. I intend to propose that the House shall meet after the holidays on the Wednesday week following. On the Thursday and Friday after reassembling I propose to take Votes in Supply, Wednesday being a private Members' day, so that hon. Members mainly interested in legislation can prolong their holidays over the fortnight.

SIR H. CAMPBELLBANNERMAN

What will be taken on Friday should the discussion on the Finance Bill close on Thursday? Will the sitting on Friday week be of the ordinary character?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

The sitting on Friday week will be an ordinary sitting, and should the discussion on the Finance Bill close on Thursday, Friday will be devoted to the London Government Bill.

MR. CHANNING

When will the Government move the adjournment for the holidays?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

Probably at the commencement of the Friday's sitting.