HC Deb 25 June 1896 vol 42 cc127-8

On the Order for the Second Reading of this Bill,

MR. ASQUITH

asked when the Government proposed to make effective progress with the Bill? Legislation was on both sides of the House regarded as necessary, and some definite assurance would give general satisfaction.

THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY

said that the decision of the Government must partly depend on what view was taken of the amount of time required for the Second Reading. He understood that the Second Reading could almost be taken by Debate. There were some Gentlemen on both sides who desired a short discussion, but that discussion must be very short if the Bill were to be taken soon. It would be impossible to break into the consideration of the Rating or the Finance Bill. He was as anxious as the right hon. Gentleman to get the Second Reading as soon as possible, so that the Bill might be sent to a Grand Committee.

MR. W. ABRAHAM (Glamorganshire, Rhondda)

said that, as one of the miners' Representatives in the House, he must say that the Mines Bill was of such vital importance that it could not be allowed to pass without adequate discussion on the Second Reading. The Bill proposed radical changes, on which something must be said.

THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY

Against the Bill?

MR. ABRAHAM

Yes.

Second Reading deferred till Tomorrow.