On Thursday Sir Henry Campbell-Bannerman made a long and powerful
speech in opposition to Mr. Balfour's new rules. His chief point was that the House was the grand inquest of the nation, and that this function would be impaired by the restrictions placed on questions by the new procedure. He was in favour of punishing disorderly conduct more severely, but he did not approve of the apology clause. He would not change Wednesdays for Fridays. He thought. also, that for business men 2 o'clock was too early an hour to begin the sittings. After other minor criticisms, Mr. Chamberlain replied, defending the new rules, and, as it seems to us, with success. Mr. Redmond made a "common form" Irish speech in support of retaining all encouragements to disorder, and at 12 o'clock the debate stood adjourned. On the whole, the chances of a sounder and more businesslike procedure being arrived at seem hopeful.
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