HC Deb 22 March 1906 vol 154 cc643-4
MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I have to ask what is the business of the House for next week, and if it is proposed to take the Army Bill after twelve o'clock, seeing that it has only been circulated this morning, and it is desired that hon. Members should have an opportunity of considering the alteration which it is proposed to introduce.

SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

On Monday the Workmen's Compensation Bill and the Trades Disputes Bill will be introduced.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

Under the Ten Minutes Rule?

SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

No. On Tuesday it is proposed to take the Second Reading of the Merchant Shipping Bill. On Wednesday we shall proceed with the introduction of certain other Bills; probably the Justices of the Peace (Qualification) Bill will be taken. On Thursday there will be Army Estimates to be followed by Civil Service Estimates. I understand that the Amendments to the Army Annual Bill are not of a controversial character, but it will not be proceeded with after twelve o'clock to-night if there is any objection. In view of the early rising of the House of Lords for the Easter holidays it is desirable to put that Bill through all its stages in good time.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

said he was very far from desiring to interfere with the convenience of the other House, but he did not know that in such a matter they need modify their own arrangements for business. Personally he had no desire to object to the Second Reading of the Bill, and might not feel moved to object to any of the details, but he had a lively recollection of the great difficulty he experienced when in office in dealing with this measure. He well remembered how Amendments were always opposed, and how he had the unpleasant duty of suppressing the zeal of the successive Secretaries of State for introducing modifications. He hoped the Government therefore was not attempting to force the measure. Was it proposed to take any other business that day?

SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

The Committee Stage of the Consolidated Fund Bill.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

That is a stage on which there can be no debate. Will no other debateable matter be taken except getting the Speaker out of the chair?

SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

Yes, up to twelve o'clock if there is time.