HC Deb 03 June 1897 vol 50 cc256-7
MR. RENSHAW

said it was the unanimous wish of those interested in the Bill among the supporters of the Government, a wish shared by a considerable number of hon. Members opposite, that the Government would proceed with the Committee at once, to give opportunity for consideration in Scotland during the holidays.

MR. PARKER SMITH

said he wished to join in the appeal of his hon. Friend.

MR. J. CALDWELL (Mid Lanark)

said that the Scotch Members on both sides had supported the Bill on the understanding that ample time would be given for its consideration.

THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY

said his desire had been to afford an opportunity for passing through the Committee stage of this Resolution on the following day, but when he had made the suggestion he had been informed by a high authority on the Front Opposition Bench, which had subsequently been fortified by equally strong protests by other leading Members of the Opposition, that exception was taken to that course. He felt himself bound to defer to the apparent deliberate and unanimous desire on the part of the Opposition, and he should therefore bring in the all as soon as possible after Whitsuntide.

Committee thereupon deferred till Thursday 17th June.