HL Deb 07 August 1924 vol 59 cc528-9
THE MARQUESS OF SALISBURY

I should like to know what the noble and learned Viscount proposes to do as to this day's sitting.

THE LORD CHANCELLOR

My Lords, obviously the convenient thing would be to adjourn during pleasure now, as the Appropriation Bill has to come up and be dealt with. I have endeavoured to ascertain the state of the proceedings in another place, but it would be very rash to make any prediction. We have nothing but the Appropriation Bill to deal with, and, as the proceedings on the Appropriation Bill will be formal, there will then only remain a Royal Commission, and I do not think a large body of your Lordships need trouble to return.

THE MARQUESS CURZON OF KEDLESTON

I understand that the proceedings on the Appropriation Bill have not been completed in the House of Commons. Does the noble and learned Viscount propose calling this House together at some period later in the afternoon, because, although it may be true that nothing may happen, still the Appropriation Bill is an opportunity which any noble Lord may take to make observations.

THE LORD CHANCELLOR

We will not call you together, because you are together. I walk out, and we resume at pleasure, and those of your Lordships who wish to make speeches can do so.

THE MARQUESS OF SALISBURY

Will you mention an hour?

LORD PARMOOR

There is important business at which the Lord Chancellor and I have to be present, a Cabinet meeting in the Prime Minister's room, at half past three o'clock. Would five o'clock do?

THE MARQUESS OF SALISBURY

No, six o'clock. Five o'clock would be very inconvenient.

THE LORD CHANCELLOR

Is not there some Resolution passed by the House of Commons to rise at five o'clock to-day?

LORD PARMOOR

I know that the Commons hope to get away earlier than the time fixed. No one can say what the actual time will be. I think five o'clock will probably be more convenient for them.

THE MARQUESS OF SALISBURY

There is an important meeting which we are bound to attend at five o'clock.

LORD PARMOOR

After consulting the noble Marquess I understand that three o'clock will be a convenient hour.

[The sifting was suspended at half-past twelve o'clock and resumed at three o'clock.]