HC Deb 24 March 1904 vol 132 cc642-3
SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN () Stirling Burghs

I beg to ask what will be the business of next week; when the Easter recess will commence and how long it will last, and when the Budget will be introduced.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I am afraid I cannot give the House any information as to the actual date on which the Budget will be introduced, but it will not be very long after Easter. I hope the House will allow the Government to take the Committee stage of the Consolidated Fund Bill to-morrow at half-past five o'clock. It could be stopped by an objector, but no debate can in any circumstances take place, and it would be for the general convenience if this necessarily uncontroversial stage could be taken between half-past five and six. If the House will consent to that course, then I should take the Third Reading on Monday. On Tuesday I propose to take the Motion for the adjournment far the holidays, and I see no reason why the holidays should not last until the Tuesday after Easter Tuesday. I cannot be quite sure whether I shall not have to ask the House to meet on Wednesday, but I should like to avoid that contingency if I can do so. The Scotch Education Bill will be introduced on Monday.

MR. LOUGH

What will the business be on Wednesday if the House meet.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I cannot say.

SIR WILFRID LAWSON () Cornwall, Camborne

When will the Licensing Bill be introduced.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

Soon after Easter, I hope.

AN HON. MEMBER

Will it be before Christmas.