HC Deb 19 June 1925 vol 185 cc1049-50

Order for Second Reading read.

Mr. HURST

I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time."

I quite realise that at this time of the day it is impossible to get this Bill through. I also recognise that at this time of the Session it is impossible to have any hope that the Bill may become law, but I should like to emphasise these facts. This Bill is supported by the great majority, if not by all, of the nurses of this country. It has also a very influential backing from the general public and the medical profession. It is a non-party Measure supported by Members in all parts of the House. The object of the Bill, however much you may criticise its details, is, I think, beyond all criticism and all challenge, inasmuch as it aims at preventing bogus institutions from defrauding the public. It also aims at removing abuses by which persons having no claim to be nurses may drag a noble and an honourable calling in the dirt by purporting to carry on nursing homes. It is open, undoubtedly, to many criticisms of detail, but the principle is supported by most thinking people. I do ask the representative of the Government, if he cannot see his way to support the Second Reading, at all events to give a short statement as to the Government's intentions with regard to the Bill.

Captain ELLIOT (Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Health, Scotland)

It would not be possible for this Bill to have a Second Reading now, but if the promoters would see their way to withdraw the Bill, I think I could promise, on behalf of the Government to have a Select Committee appointed to inquire into the subject. Then we could have the evidence worked out on either side, and subsquently be able to come to a decision which would be quite impossible in the time remaining this Session.

Mr. HURST

Having regard to what the hon. and gallant Gentleman says, I beg leave to withdraw the Bill, and to accept the offer.

Motion, by leave, withdrawn; Bill withdrawn.

The remaining Orders were read, and postponed.

Whereupon Mr. SPEAKER adjourned the House, without Question put, pursuant to Standing Order No. 3.

Adjourned at One Minute after Four o'Clock, until Monday next (22nd June).