The second half of the Speech contained an allusion, most
unusual in form, to the serious nature of the coming Budget :— " Owing to various causes, including the new provision which' was made last year for old age, and an increase which has become necessary in the cost of my Navy, the expenditure of the year will be considerably in excess of that of the past twelve' months. In these circumstances, the provision necessary for' the services of the State in the ensuing year will require very serious consideration, and, in consequence, less time than usual will, I fear, be available for the consideration of other legisla- tive measures." This is a plain recognition in advance of the fact that financial questions will dominate the Session, and is probably intended to prepare the way for the necessary heavy expenditure on the Navy. It was announced that the 'Irish Land and the Housing and Town Planning Bills would be reintroduced. The new Bills will be on the following subjects : Welsh Diseatablishment ; a system of co-ordinated labour exchanges ; Trade Boards to prevent sweating ; reform in the laws affecting Parliamentry elections and registration in London; amendment of the Old-Age Pensions Act; the prohibi- tion of landing and selling in the United Kingdom fish caught in the prohibited areas of the sea adjoining Scotland ; and reform of the laws respecting inebriates, the milk-supply, and the hours of work in shops. It is to be noted that the speech said nothing of the House of Lords, of the condition of Ireland, or of education. The phrases used in referring to the issue of the Report of the Poor Law Commission probably suggest that no legislation under this head is contemplated for the present.
