HC Deb 18 May 1903 vol 122 cc940-1
MR. BRYCE (Aberdeen, S.)

What Supply will be taken next Thursday?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I hope to take the Revenue Estimates.

MR. GIBSON BOWLES

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the propriety of putting down the third section of Vote 8, in order that we may discuss the general question of subsidies for merchant cruisers?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I do not think it would be expedient to again bring on Vote 8, to which a full sitting has already been devoted, when there are other important matters which must engage the attention of the House. In addition to that, it appears to me the point the hon. Member wishes to discuss touches on the fringe of another discussion which will take place later on the Atlantic Combine agreements.

MR. GIBSON BOWLES

The third part of Vote 8 has not been considered at all.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

That may be so, but I still think it inexpedient to bring the Vote on again.

SIR HENRY FOWLER (Wolverhampton, E.)

A considerable amount of time has already been given to the Revenue Votes, and I would call the attention of the right hon. Gentleman to the fact that we have as yet reached none of the Votes for the great administrative Departments. Would it not be desirable to take one of those next Thursday?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

With regard to the Votes raising the action and policy of the great administrative Departments, the Home Office and the Local Government Board, I shall be happy to consult hon. Gentlemen opposite through the ordinary recognised channels, and will take care that some arrangement is arrived at which will be agreeable to the House at large. I will endeavour to announce the result either to-night, at the termination of business, or to-morrow at Question time.

SIR CHARLES DILKE (Gloucestershire, Forest of Dean)

We cannot discuss the Home Office Vote until we have the reports of the Inspectors of Factories and Workshops, which I believe are ready, although they have not yet been circulated.