§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is yet in a position to state when he will receive the deputation from the Eastern Shipping Company and hold the promised inquiry relating to the Penang Dock?
Mr. HARCOURTI have found it necessary to refer some points arising out of this question to the Law Officers of the Crown. I have not yet received their report, but when I have done so I will lose no time in dealing with the matter. The hon. Gentleman appears to be under some misapprehension. I have not undertaken to receive a deputation, and, as at present advised, I do not think that there is any necessity for me to do so.