§ SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANWhat will be the Supply nest Thursday?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURI think it would probably be convenient to the House to take the salary of the Secretary of State for War in Committee of Supply on Thursday next. I must not be considered as giving an absolute pledge, but I have very little doubt that is the arrangement which will be made.
§ SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANDoes that mean the Army Estimates generally? Does the right hon. Gentleman contemplate going on with the discussion upon the statement which will be made, without any opportunity being given to Members of previously considering the statement?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURI will consider that point. I understand that what the right hon. Gentleman desires is that there should be no immediate discussion upon any plans laid before the House by the Secretary of State for War.
§ SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANThat there should be a further discussion.
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURYes, and therefore other business might go on immediately. I will consider whether it would not be convenient, as being very germane to the first Vote, that I should put down the secretariat to the Defence Committee; but perhaps I may be allowed to consider that matter.
§ MR. WHITLEYMay I ask the First Lord of the Treasury whether, in view of the trade interests concerned, he will be able to take the Finance Bill soon? There is a great deal of anxiety in the country on it.
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURI agree, and I am very anxious to get on with the Bill, I will state more on Monday.