The Closure may prove a more powerful weapon in our
politics than was anticipated. The House begins to perceive its utility in preventing mere talk, and employs it for that purpose with zest. On Tuesday, for example, the House had a long debate on Indian frontier policy, and when it had enough of it, Mr. Caine moved the Closure, which was agreed to at once. On Wednesday, also, the Tory Irreconcilables tried to continue the discussion on the Oaths Bill, but Mr. Bradlangh moving "That the question be now put," they were silenced by the enormous vote of 334 to 60. On Thursday, again, the Irish Members showing a disposition to protract the debates on Civil Service expenses, Mr. Smith intervened, and by applying the Closure, carried the vote through. It might otherwise have been " discussed " till Easter. At this rate, with the Closure used, say, twice a night, the House will get through its business nearly as fast as a vestry meeting, and will be able to devote an important portion of its time to the new business which does require threshing out.
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