§ Mr. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAINMay I ask the Prime Minister a question with reference to a statement he made yesterday to the effect that the proceedings on the Consolidated Fund Bill must be concluded by 28th March. Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in 1906 the Royal Assent was given to the Bill on the 30th March, which was a Friday? Is there any necessity, under the circumstances, for finishing the Bill by 28th March this year?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI notice that this year 31st March comes on Sunday. I am advised it is necessary to conclude the proceedings by the date I have mentioned.
§ Mr. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAINIf the right hon. Gentleman will look further into the matter he will see it was on Friday, 30th March, that the Royal Assent was given in 1906, and as Friday this year falls on the 29th that would appear quite time enough for the Royal Assent, and it would give us one day more.
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe right hon. Gentleman has occupied the position of Chancellor of the Exchequer as well as myself, and he knows quite well there is a difficulty with regard to payments in Ireland. But I will look further into the matter.