HC Deb 11 April 1911 vol 24 cc247-8
Mr. BALFOUR

Perhaps it would be convenient now to ask the Prime Minister whether he can make any statement as to the general course of business after the Easter holidays?

The PRIME MINISTER

On the recommencement of business on Tuesday, the 18th instant, I shall submit a Motion to take Wednesdays from Easter to Whitsuntide, except 19th and 26th April, which are already allocated to Members by ballot. After that Motion is disposed of we will proceed with the Parliament Bill.

Mr. JOHN REDMOND

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether, in view of the urgent importance of further provision being made to meet the necessities arising in connection with primary and intermediate education in Ireland, he will fix a day immediately after the Easter recess for the discussion of the Irish Education Vote?

The PRIME MINISTER

The hon. Member knows that we have not yet got the Speaker out of the Chair on the Civil Service Estimates, which is a necessary preliminary. When that operation has been performed I shall be glad to consider the matter.

Mr. WILLIAM O'BRIEN

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman to bear in mind that the question of the complete collapse of land purchase in Ireland is of far more importance?

Mr. BALFOUR

Is the right hon. Gentleman in a position to tell us now when the Army (Annual) Bill will be brought before the House again?

The PRIME MINISTER

I would rather postpone making any announcement on that till to-morrow, as I understand some communications are passing at present.

Lord HUGH CECIL

Will the Motion of the right hon. Gentleman include Wednesdays only, or Fridays as well?

The PRIME MINISTER

Not Fridays; only Wednesdays.

Lord HUGH CECIL

On a point of Order. Are the days now being balloted for covered by the Prime Minister's statement?