BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE. (Hansard, 26 April 1917)

§ Mr. McKENNA
Can the Chancellor of the Exchequer say what the business of the House will be to-morrow and for next week?

§ Mr. BONAR LAW
To-morrow we propose to take the Munitions of War Bill, the Billeting of Civilians Bill, and, if possible, two or three other small Bills.
On Monday, the Criminal Law Amendment Bill.
On Tuesday, Supply (Office of Works Vote).
On Wednesday and Thursday, the Budget and Budget Resolutions.

Mr. H. SAMUEL
May I ask whether, in view of the present situation with respect to the sinking of ships, the First Lord of the Admiralty proposes to make any statement to the House, or whether there will be any opportunity for the House to discuss the matter?

§ Mr. BONAR LAW
No request of that kind has been made, and I would like to have notice of that question, so that it may be properly considered.

§ Mr. PRINGLE
Can the right hon. Gentleman say when the Vote for the Ministry of Food will be put down?

§ Mr. BONAR LAW
It is impossible to name a date now; there are a great many demands for Votes.

§ Mr. PRINGLE
It is very important.

§ Mr. DEVLIN
Can the right hon. Gentleman say when he is prepared to put down the necessary Vote to enable a discussion to take place on the effect of the liquor restrictions in Ireland?

§ Mr. BONAR LAW
It is our intention to take it the week after next, but the hon. Member must not consider that as absolutely definite.

§ Mr. HOGGE
Can the right hon. Gentleman say why the Vote for the Office of Works is put down for next Tuesday, and who wants to discuss it?

§ Mr. BONAR LAW
It is put down because it is convenient to have it then.

Sir H. DALZIEL
Can he state when he proposes to hold a Secret Session?

§ Mr. BONAR LAW
We have been considering that, and, as far as it is possible. I have been making inquiries as to the desires of the House in regard to it. The time at the disposal of the House for the necessary business is very short, and I think the best arrangement would be to have a Private Sitting on the second day of the Vote of Credit, which will be taken the week after next, and I propose to adopt that course.

§ Mr. A. WILLIAMS
Does the right hon. Gentleman say that the discussion of liquor in Ireland is to have precedence over the discussion of food in the United Kingdom?

§ Mr. BONAR LAW
I do not say anything of the kind. I was asked many weeks ago for a day for this particular subject, and I promised to give a day at the earliest possible moment; I am simply trying to fulfil that promise.

§ Mr. PETO
Will the House sit on Friday of next week?

§ Mr. BONAR LAW
In all probability it will; the business for that day will be announced next week.