§ Order for Second Reading read.
§ Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read a second time."—(Mr. Attorney General for Ireland.)
§ MR. SEXTON (Belfast, W., and Sligo, S.)We had no expectation that this Bill would be taken to-night. I consulted the right hon. and learned Gentleman on the subject, and I certainly understood the Bill would not be taken to-night.
§ THE ATTORNEY GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. HOLMES) (Dublin University)I think there is some misunderstanding on the part of the hon. Gentleman. I told the hon. Gentleman I did not know what time the Bill could be brought on, but that as the block had been removed, I was under the impression that the hon. Member and his Friends were anxious to advance the Bill a stage.
§ DR. TANNER (Cork Co., Mid)I was one of the Members who blocked this Bill, and I distinctly deny that I have removed the block. I blocked the Bill again this evening, and I consider I was perfectly justified in doing so. If I think, as I do, that the Bill is not conceived in a proper spirit, and that it is not likely to be administered in a proper spirit, I maintain I am within my right in blocking it. I certainly shall do the same with any measure. [A laugh.] Hon. Members may laugh. 1457 They are perfectly at liberty to laugh; but still I maintain that, holding the views I do, I was justified in taking the course I did. To block Bills of which they disapprove is one of the special privileges which are conferred on Members of this House. I have not removed the block, and I have no intention of doing so.
§ MR. SEXTON (Belfast, W., and Sligo, S.)Perhaps I may appeal to my hon. Friends not to renew their blocks. I am sure we shall have no objection to take the Bill at a reasonable hour to-morrow.
§ Second Reading deferred, till To-morrow.
§ House adjourned at half after One o'clock.