HC Deb 21 February 1917 vol 90 cc1429-30

Whereupon Mr. DEPUTY-SPEAKER, pursuant to the Order of the House of the 12th February, proposed the Question, "That this House do now adjourn.'

The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Bonar Law)

I am very sorry to have to say, on the part of the Government, that it is impossible that the statement which the Prime Minister intended to make to-morrow can be made to-morrow. This is due to the reason I explained earlier in the week. We had hoped to have everything settled up to half an hour ago, but it so happens that representatives of the Allied Governments are with us to-day, everything has not been arranged, and it is impossible that the statement can be made to-morrow. I am going to make a demand on the House, which I am very unwilling to make, and that is that we should sit on Friday in order that the statement may then be made. I am sure the House will not resist my taking this course, but every hour is of importance, having regard to the agricultural problem. The first Order to-morrow will be the National Service Bill, followed by other Orders on the Paper.

Mr. GULLAND

I am sure the House will gladly fall in with the hon. Gentleman's suggestion and give the Government every facility. The only fear I have is that the right hon. Gentleman may not have a very large attendance on Friday because I am afraid in many cases hon. Members have made their engagements otherwise. He will understand the reason of the small House if there is one. I presume no other business will be taken on Friday. Would the right hon. Gentleman indicate precisely what other business will be taken to-morrow?

Lord E. TALBOT (Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury)

The National Service Bill, followed by the Report of Supply (19th February), and probably Ministry of National Service (salaries and remuneration).

Mr. G. LAMBERT

I presume there will be an opportunity of debating the statement and of expressing an opinion whether the proposals are sufficient from the agricultural point of view.

Mr. PRINGLE

Will it be taken on the Adjournment Motion?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I fancy that will be the simplest way, but at all events it will be taken in a form which will permit of discussion.

Question put, and agreed to.

Adjourned accordingly at Twenty-eight minutes before Nine o'clock.