HC Deb 26 July 1904 vol 138 c1316

[SECOND READING.]

Order read for resuming adjourned debate on Question [1st July], "That the Bill be now read a second time."

Question again proposed.

MR. WHITLEY (Halifax)

said that although under the circumstances he did not propose to object to the Second Reading being taken he desired to protest against the noble Lord bringing on a measure of this kind at such a late hour.

THE POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Lord STANLEY,) Lancashire, Westhoughton

appealed to hon. Members opposite to allow this Bill to pass. He regretted that it had not been possible for him to put the Bill down at a more convenient time. He assured hon. Members that it was very necessary that the Bill should be passed at the earliest possible moment.

MR. DALZIEL (Kirkcaldy Burghs)

said that he would not offer any objection to the Bill if it was so urgent, but at the same time he associated himself with the hon. Member for Halifax in protesting against a Bill of this character being brought forward after twelve o'clock. He thought the noble Lord might have arranged for this Bill being brought forward at a time when they could have discussed it properly.

Ordered, That all Petitions against the Bill presented Five clear days before the meeting of the Committee be referred to the Committee; that the Petitioners praying to be heard by themselves, their Counsel, or Agents be heard against the Bill, and Counsel heard in support of the Bill.

Ordered, That the Committee have power to send for persons, papers, and records.

Ordered, That Three be the Quorum.—(Lord Stanley.)