HC Deb 22 February 1889 vol 333 cc139-40
MR. WILLIAM REDMOND (Fermanagh, N.)

Mr. Speaker—I rise to a point of order. There is a Bill of which I have given notice, but I was not here, because I understood that it would be competent for me to introduce it at the end of the proceedings of this sitting, but I am now led to understand that the First Lord of the Treasury yesterday-made a statement that Bills could be introduced first thing to-day. I, and I think a number of others, did not have an opportunity of hearing the statement of the First Lord of the Treasury; and what I would ask you is, whether I have an opportunity of introducing my Bill to-day, not having, by chance, had an opportunity of hearing the statement which the First Lord made yesterday? It appears to me to be very hard.

MR. SPEAKER

I am afraid there is no remedy for it under the circumstances. A very large number of Members have brought in their Bills, and I am afraid the hon. Member must put it down for Monday. I do not think he will be in a worse position.

MR. WILLIAM REDMOND

The First Lord of the Treasury should have given us notice. This was utterly sprung upon us.

THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY (Mr. W. H. SMITH)

Sir, may I offer an explanation to the hon. Member? All that I did was simply to draw the attention of hon. Members to the provision of the Standing Order under which they were at liberty to introduce their Bills.

MR. WILLIAM REDMOND

Might I not introduce my Bill as is usually done at the end of the sitting?

MR. SPEAKER

The Clerk will now proceed to read the Orders of the Day.