§ SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN (Stirling Burghs)I wish to make an appeal to the First Lord with regard 462 to the business to-night. I wish to ask him not to carry out his intention, should he have formed one, of bringing the discussion on the coal duties resolution to a close to-night. I make the appeal on the ground of the importance of the subject, and also because many localities are affected, and in fairness full discussion should be allowed.
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURI am, of course, far from denying the importance of the resolution, but may I remind my right hon. friend of what has already taken place in connection with the resolution, and the ample opportunities afforded for discussion of the principle and details on the stages of the Budget Bill. I had hoped that the discussion of the Report of the resolution would have concluded on Tuesday, but the manner in which the early sitting on Tuesday was employed—[An HON. MEMBER: Or wasted.]—is fresh in the recollection of the House. A whole sitting is before the House for the discussion, and I believe I am not wrong in saying that there is an understanding on both sides that before we rise the question should be brought to an issue. Grave public inconvenience would result from, postponement, and I hope the right hon. Gentleman will assist the Government in bringing about a decision to-night, keeping in mind the fact that on the Second Reading and Committee stages of the Bill there will be ample opportunities for all opposing arguments on behalf of different localities.
§ *MR. SPEAKEROrder, order! This matter cannot be discussed.
§ SIR JAMES JOICEYMay I ask the indulgence of the House. It is a very important matter.
§ *MR. SPEAKERNo; the question has been asked and answered, and in such cases it is not usual to allow discussion.
§ MR. M'KENNAHas the Leader of the House taken into his consideration the fact that any curtailment of the 463 present discussion on the coal duty may—
§ *MR. SPEAKEROrder, order! Thai is a matter of argument.