HC Deb 19 February 1948 vol 447 cc1442-3
Lieut.-Colonel Elliot

I beg to move, in page 21, line 1, after "that," to insert "where."

This Amendment goes together with three consequential Amendments. They are intended to ask for an implementation of the statement made by the Minister that the postponement of the lists would only take place in very exceptional cases. These words are so drafted as to make it clear that it could only take place in very exceptional circumstances, and the omission of Subsection (3) is intended to go along with that. We might, perhaps, take the two points together if it suits the convenience of the House.

Mr. Bevan

I did give an assurance in Committee, and I am prepared to repeat it here, that it is not intended to use these powers except in very exceptional circumstances. I hope that assurance will be sufficient.

Amendment negatived.

Brigadier Prior-Palmer (Worthing)

I beg to move, in page 21, line 5, to leave out from "to," to "as," in line 6, and to insert "that area."

This Amendment is consequential on the Amendment which has already been moved, and the assurance of the Minister is, I think, relative to this also. As regards the next Amendment, in page 21, line 15, to leave out Subsection (3), if, as he has suggested, it will only be in special circumstances that an extension to one year will be regarded as necessary, then Subsection (3) should not be in the Bill.

Mr. O. Poole

I beg to second the Amendment.

Mr. Bevan

I understand, Mr. Speaker, that this Amendment is consequential on the previous ones, and that the hon. and gallant Gentleman now proposes to withdraw it.

Lieut.-Colonel Elliot

I think, perhaps, I rather hastily included Subsection (3) in the remarks I made, and that my hon. and gallant Friend would desire to make sure that the Minister's assurance which he has just given applies in relation to Subsection (3) as well.

Mr. Bevan

Certainly.

Amendment negatived.