§ 53. Mr. WILLIAM YOUNGasked the Prime Minister whether the Government still adhere to their decision not to have an Autumn Session?
§ 55. Mr. CHARLES BATHURSTasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the exceptionally high temperature of the present summer and its enervating and exacerbating effect upon the constitution and temper of Members of this House, the slow progress of public business, and the mass of important legislation still awaiting careful consideration this Session, he will reconsider his decision with regard to an Autumn Session and permit the House to adjourn at the beginning of August and reassemble for a month at the beginning of November, when more temperate atmospheric conditions will prevail?
§ 58. Mr. NEWMANasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that two requests are being extensively signed by private Members, one that the sittings of the House should be suspended as from the, end of the present month to be resumed at a date in the early autumn, and the second that the Session should be brought to a close at the earliest moment compatible with the transaction of necessary Government business; whether he is aware of the pronounced feeling in the country with reference to Members of Parliament adjourning for a period of vacation extending to six months while continuing to draw their salaries at full rate; and whether he will make an early statement of the Government's intentions in the matter?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe whole matter is receiving careful consideration. The Government will certainly bear in mind the wishes expressed by hon. Members, and a definite statement on the subject will be made as soon as possible.
§ Mr. PRETYMANDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise the very great inconvenience which will be caused to every one in this House, on both sides, not in regard to the holding of an Autumn Session—in 827 regard to that we are perfectly ready to do our duty—but in respect of the great inconvenience caused by not being able to make arrangements? Will the Prime Minister bear in mind that the time is very short for making arrangements, and will he make a definite statement as soon as possible?
§ The PRIME MINISTERA definite statement will be made as soon as possible.
MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINEIs the hon. Gentleman aware that hon. Members on his side, including the one who put a question, have taken shootings in Scotland, and are anxious to go there?
§ Mr. MORRELLMay I ask if in the event of the Government deciding to go straight on there is any prospect of finishing the business before the middle of September?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat is one of the subjects which will receive consideration.
§ Mr. CHARLES BATHURSTIs it a fact as reported that the Cabinet have already decided that there shall be an Autumn Session?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo, Sir.