HC Deb 12 August 1890 vol 348 cc819-20

Lords Amendments considered.

(3.38.) MR. SEXTON (Belfast, W.)

I feel constrained to move that the Lords Amendments to this Bill be agreed with, although they alter the measure in a manner which is not at all satisfactory to us. The three thousand chemists and druggists in Ireland are by it rendered liable to unnecessary prosecutions and penalties, but, as other provisions of the Bill are much required, we are forced to submit to the pressure put on us. There is, however, one small Amendment which I think must be made in Clause 3. This provides for an examination in reading, writing, the English language, and elementary arithmetic. Now, I do not think the words "English language" are required, and I shall move to omit them.

MR. JACKSON

Perhaps it would be better to put the Bill down for this day (Wednesday).

MR. SEXTON

There is no necessity for it. I have spoken to the Attorney General for Ireland, and be has agreed to the omission of these words. I see the Solicitor General for England is in his place; perhaps he can assure the right hon. Gentleman that no harm will be done by the omission of the words.

SIR E. CLARKE

Looking at the Bill for the first time I must say there seems to be no objection to the omission of the words.

Amendment proposed, in Clause 8, to omit the words "the English language," agreed to.

Other Amendments agreed to.