§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLI beg to ask the First Lord of the Treasury why has not the legislation, which he promised on the 19th February, 1903, would be introduced as soon as possible, for an amendment in the law, providing adequate remedies for the frauds disclosed in the case of Whitaker Wright and the Globe Finance Company, been introduced; and what explanation, if any, has he to give with respect to his failure to perform his 806 promise to the House of Commons more than two years ago to take steps for the carrying into effect of this legislation to amend the law.
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURThe hon. Gentleman is misinformed as to the facts. In accordance with the pledge to which he refers, a Bill was introduced last year. It was opposed by hon. Gentlemen opposite. The Government are anxious to proceed with it this year, and my hon. and learned friend the Attorney-General has got the measure prepared and is quite ready to proceed with it.
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLWill the right hon. Gentleman make this a Government measure? The right hon. Gentleman gave a distinct pledge that he would make the law conform to a broad view of commercial morality.
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURI do not quite follow the hon. Gentleman. It was a Government Bill last year. It will be a Government Bill this year. What more does he want?
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLI want it passed, and not obstructed by the right hon. Gentleman and his friends.