HC Deb 31 May 1889 vol 336 cc1667-8

Order for Second Reading, read.

Motion made and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read a second time."

MR. SEXTON (Belfast, N.)

I hope the House will assent to the Second Reading of this Bill.

MR. MADDEN

I do not think that this is a Bill which can be read a second time without discussion. I think the object of it should be explained to the House. As the right hon. Gentleman must be aware, it makes a very considerable change in the existing state of the law as regards a very important Irish profession. I believe that Irish solicitors themselves are of opinion that the provisions of this Bill should not be assented to. I beg to move the adjournment of the Debate.

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Debate be now adjourned."

MR. CONYBEARE

I must say I think we have a right to congratulate the hon. and learned Serjeant on the successful manner in which he has wasted several minutes of the time of the House. I think it is a great achievement of the party of law and order.

* MR. SPEAKER

Order, order! The hon. Member is not speaking to the Motion.

MR. SEXTON

I have only to say that the Bill is an extremely simple one; it is only intended to make more easy admission to the profession of solicitors. I do not think the body of solicitors are opposing it. Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman take from me an assurance that if the Bill is read a second time now we will give a favourable reception to any Amendments he may suggest?

MR. MADDEN

I can only speak again by the indulgence of the House; but I would like to point out that the Solicitors Bill deals with this as well as other important questions, and it appears to me it will be better to deal with this subject when in Committee on the Solicitors Bill.

Debate adjourned till Monday next.