2 and 3. Mr. PONSONBYasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (1) whether any project has been drafted for the reconstitution of the Legislative Council and General Assembly in Egypt; whether the introduction of a new electoral law is also contemplated; and, if so, whether the existing Legislative Council and General Assembly will be consulted before the Khedive's consent is obtained to the decree putting in. force the new law; and (2) whether he will take an opportunity before the end of this Session of giving the House lull information with regard to the contemplated reforms in the Government of Egypt, details of which are now appearing in. the Egyptian Press?
§ Sir E. GREYThe answer to the two first paragraphs is in the affirmative. The answer to the last paragraph is in the negative. The Khedive has already given his consent to the new law. I intend to lay the text of the new laws and an explanation of them on Monday next.
4. Mr. PONSONBYasked whether the Egyptian Government have entered into, or are about to enter into, any arrangement extending the borrowing powers of the Agricultural Bank of Egypt, and making other modifications in its constitution; and whether the Legislative Council has been consulted as to the advisability of taking such a step, or has been informed of the terms of the arrangement?
§ Sir E. GREYI understand the matter is being considered by the Council of Ministers, which is the usual course.
5. Mr. PONSONBYasked whether the Egyptian Government have come to any arrangement with the Egyptian Delta Light Railway Company, with a view to repurchasing the concession for the Cairo- Helouan Railway, and for other purposes; and whether the Legislative Council has been consulted in the matter?
§ Sir E. GREYI am informed that an arrangement for this purpose has been come to by the Ministry of Finance and has been referred to the Council of Ministers; this is, I understand, the usual course, and not to refer such matters to the Legislative Council.