HC Deb 23 July 1900 vol 86 cc887-8
SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

Can the First Lord of the Treasury give any information as to the course of business? There is a Blue-book relating to the Cape, the consideration of which is absolutely essential to the discussion of the Colonial Vote. It only came into the hands of such Members as applied at the Vote Office this afternoon, although it was promised it should reach hon. Members this morning. I think the right hon. Gentleman will see that this is rather short time to consider it in preparation for to morrow's discussion. I appeal to the right hon. Gentleman, if he can with convenience to the House and the public, to postpone that Vote and take some other business on Tuesday.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I am sorry that a misadventure has occurred about the Blue-book. These incidents make it very i difficult for the Leader of the House to arrange the business to suit the convenience of the members. Under the circumstances, I will go forward with Bills on Tuesday and Wednesday. I cannot say when the Colonial Vote will be taken, but I will give the earliest notification to the House that is in my power. The Companies Bill will be taken on Tuesday.

MR. COURTNEY (Cornwall, Bodmin)

May I urge the right hon. Gentleman to fix Monday for the Colonial Office Vote, or, at all events, to give it preference over any other Vote on the very earliest day?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

My anxiety is to bring on the Vote as soon as possible, and it is only in deference to appeal made to me in a very responsible quarter of the House that I feel myself reluctantly compelled to postpone the Vote. I must be allowed to consider what date I may fix for it, and I shall be glad to take it on Monday if it is convenient.

MR. CHANNING (Northamptonshire, E.)

Could not the Colonial Vote be taken on Thursday or Friday?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I think that would be inconvenient, as those days have long been allocated.

MR. CHANNING

Will Effective Supply be put down each night?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

Yes, but no attempt will be made to commence it after midnight.