HC Deb 25 March 1942 vol 378 cc2000-1
The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Eden)

May I make a statement on the Business of the House? It was originally intended that we should take the Lords Amendments to the Landlord and Tenant (Requisitioned Land) Bill to-day, but I believe it would be more convenient to the House if we took them on our next Sitting Day, before the Motion for the Adjournment, so that we should not interrupt the time for the Debate to-day. I told the Hot se last Thursday of the proposal for the Easter Adjournment, and I propose on our next Sitting Day to make a further statement on the Business to be taken during the week of our return after Easter.

Mr. Bellenger

Is it the intention of the Government to proceed with the Army and Air Force (Annual) Bill before the Recess?

Mr. Eden

No, Sir; that is the first item after our return.

Mr. Garro Jones

While I do not wish to challenge the arrangements which the right hon. Gentleman has made, may I put a point? The last day of our Sittings before a Recess has invariably been given to the Motion for the Adjournment of the House, and if discussions on a highly technical Measure are interposed by Members on the Motion for the Adjournment, there is a danger that Members will not be able to take what I may call the prize opportunity of raising other matters?

Mr. Eden

I agree. That is exactly what I wanted to avoid doing. But I am told that this Bill will take very little time indeed. It is not contentious, and we do want to get the Bill. I think it would be less inconvenient if we took it on our next Sitting Day.

Mr. Garro Jones

Could we have an assurance that so far as the present Leader of the House is concerned this will not be regarded as a precedent?

Mr. Eden

I can certainly give that assurance. My desire is to cause as little inconvenience as possible.

Mr. Harvey

Will the meeting of the House be at its usual hour on the day of our return? If it is, it will be rather difficult for Members living at a distance to be here ready for Question Time.

Mr. Eden

I think it is difficult to avoid that, but I will look into it and make a statement at our next Sitting.

Sir Ralph Glyn

When considering what Business will be taken when the House reassembles after Easter, will my right hon. Friend bear in mind the promise given in this House that opportunity will be given for a discussion on the advantages of a Joint General Staff to represent the three Services?

Mr. Eden

I will bear in mind the representations made by my hon. Friend on that subject. I am well aware of it.