HC Deb 03 August 1891 vol 356 cc1140-1
SIR W. LAWSON

May I ask what course the Government propose to take with Order No. 10—Betting and Loans (Infants) Bill?

MR. GOSCHEN

I do not know that the Government have any control over the fate of this Bill. I can only repeat my wish that it may be passed; but the opponents of the Bill have put down a large number of Amendments; and if they are to be discussed, there is not much hope of passing the Bill. It is not desirable that time should be wasted in the discussion of a Bill which is not likely to be passed. Therefore, I am afraid the Bill will share the fate of other good Bills.

SIR W. LAWSON

The Bill has come from the Lords, so that it has only to pass this House. It might be disposed of without unnecessary delay, and there would be an end of the matter.

MR. HUNTER (Aberdeen, N.)

Is it fair, after so many Members have left London, to push a private Member's Bill of such a contentious character?

MR. GOSCHEN

That question might be answered by asking whether it is fair that a very small minority of Members should persistently oppose a Bill which I believe the great majority desire to pass?

SIR W. LAWSON

I believe there is absolutely no objection to the principle of the Bill; all the objection is to the details. [Cries of "No, no!"]