HC Deb 09 February 1899 vol 66 cc343-4

To Exempt the Sale of Intoxicating Liquor in the Houses of Parliament from the Licensing and Excise Acts. (Lord Stanley.)

LORD STANLEY

I beg leave to move the Motion standing in my name.

SIR WILFRID LAWSON (Cumberland, Cockermouth)

I do not wish to oppose in any way my noble friend, but I think we ought to have some explanation of this Bill before it is read even a first time, because it is evident from his bringing in this Bill that something illegal is going on, otherwise he would have no object in bringing it in. Now I would like to come to an agreement with my noble friend in order that we may proceed pleasantly in this matter—that until his Bill is through he shall agree that the sale of drink to the public within the precincts of the House shall be prohibited. If he will do that we shall be able to get on very well; if he will not then I shall have to keep my eye on the matter.

Leave was given to bring in the Bill, which was read a first time.

* MR. SPEAKER

Members who are bringing up Notices of Bills and Motions will very greatly facilitate the work at the Table if they will put upon them the number they have obtained in the ballot.