§ SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN (Stirling Burghs)It would be convenient to hon. Members to know if the Government intend to take Supply after 12 o'clock.
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURYes, Sir, we do.
MR. JAMES LOWTHERWith regard to the arrangements for the debate on the Second Reading of the Finance Bill, can the right hon. Gentleman say whether facilities will be afforded for a general discussion, in addition to that on the Amendment of the right hon. Gentleman the Member for East Wolverhampton?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURIt is my hope that the debate on the Second Reading of the Finance Bill will be ended on Tuesday; but, if not, Thursday is at the disposal of the House. I do not pledge myself, however, not to put down the motion for the holidays as the first Order on Thursday.
§ MR. D. A. THOMAS (Merthyr Tydvil)Will it be competent for hon. 612 Members to enter upon a general discussion on the Amendment?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURThat question should not be addressed to me.
§ MR. SPEAKERIt appears to me that the Amendment of the right hon. Member for East Wolverhampton is one that covers the whole ground.
§ SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANIf it should be the case that the Amendment will allow a discussion on all points connected with the Finance Bill, will the right hon. Gentleman undertake not to close the debate before Thursday?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURIt does not rest with me whether the debate is closed or not. Personally, I should hope it will finish at seven p.m. to-morrow. That will be for the general convenience of Members; but if the House insists on going on, Thursday is at its disposal.