HC Deb 14 March 1905 vol 142 cc1396-7
MR. JOHN ELLIS (Nottinghamshire, Rushcliffe)

Not before March 31st.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

If I may be allowed to say so, I have looked into this matter, and I have expressed my opinion. To-morrow I shall be glad to enter into this question.

MR. JOHN REDMOND

Does the right hon. Gentleman seriously suggest there is a single precedent for a guillotine Resolution before March 31st.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I never suggested anything of that kind.

MR. BRYCE

I desire to ask the right hon. Gentleman whether there is any precedent for putting down a Motion of this kind without an opportunity to hon. Members of moving Amendments.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

Certainly there is plenty of opportunity. Perhaps the right hon. Gentleman will allow me to deal with this question at the proper time.

*MR. MCCRAE (Edinburgh, E. )

I beg to ask whether the object of bringing the guillotine into operation is to close the Parliamentary session by March 31st.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

The object of the process the hon. Gentleman describes is to enable the House to obey the law of the land.

MR. LOUGH (Islington, W. )

Cannot the right hon. Gentleman give us one day's notice and allow the Resolution to be taken on Thursday.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I honestly think that the course I have suggested will be for the general convenience of the House.