HC Deb 20 July 1911 vol 28 cc1275-6
Mr. LYNCH

asked the Prime Minister whether, in allotting the time of the re-mander of the Session, he will take into consideration the fact that a full day has not yet been allowed for the Debate on the Education Estimates, and that, whereas in France and Germany efforts are being made to develop not only technical education but higher scientific education and research, these subjects have been barely touched upon in Parliament this year?

Mr. MORRELL

asked the Prime Minister if he can yet state when the Foreign Office Vote will be taken?

Mr. HADDOCK

asked the Prime Minister if he can state when he proposes to take the Second Reading of the Finance Bill?

Mr. JOHN

asked the Prime Minister if he will state when the Vote for the salary of the President of the Board of Agriculture will be taken; and whether, as Members representing Welsh constituencies are anxious to discuss the administrative action of the Board in Wales, he will arrange that opportunity for such discussion may be afforded at an early date?

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Asquith)

I will consider the various claims that are being put forward, and make an announcement later.

Mr. CHARLES BATHURST

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the Debate on the Education Vote the President of the Board occupied exactly two and a quarter hours, and a private Bill occupied one and a-half hours, leaving three and a quarter hours only for the discussion of national education on one day in the year, apart from any departmental or local grievances?

The PRIME MINISTER

These facts are familiar and will be taken into account.

Mr. MORRELL

Can the right hon. Gentleman give us any assurance that the Foreign Office Vote will be taken?

The PRIME MINISTER

No, Sir, I cannot give any assurance.

Mr. WEDGWOOD

In view of the extravagant demands made by Germany and France, would it not be well that the House of Commons should have an opportunity of discussing the Foreign Office Vote or that the Foreign Secretary should be given an opportunity of making a statement?

The PRIME MINISTER

I do not think it desirable that matters of that kind should be raised by way of supplementary questions.