§ Lord Wharncliffesaid, as an allusion has been made by the noble Lord (Farnham) to certain reports that are in circulation on the subject of a dissolution of Parliament, I wish to ask his Majesty's Ministers whether there is any truth in the statement, that they have advised his Majesty to dissolve Parliament, and that it has been resolved 1742 to adopt that course? I ask this question, because, if I should receive an answer in the affirmative, it is my intention to adopt some measure in relation to the subject, and, I can assure the noble Earl opposite, very speedily.
§ Earl Grey.—I believe the noble Lord's question will be admitted to be one of a very unusual nature, and I can hardly bring myself to believe that when he put it the noble Lord expected an answer. But whatever the noble Lord's expectation may have been, I have only to say, I must decline answering his question. As to any measure which he may think it necessary to propose on that subject, he will consult his own discretion, and take whatever course he sees fit. I can otter him no advice whatever.
§ Lord Wharncliffe.—My Lords, I now give notice that I shall to-morrow move your Lordships that an humble address be presented to his Majesty, praying that his Majesty will be graciously pleased not to exercise his undoubted prerogative of dissolving Parliament.