HC Deb 15 December 1908 vol 198 cc1595-6
MR. A. J. BALFOUR (City of London)

asked what Bills the Government proposed to take that night after the Lords' Amendments to the Children Bill had been disposed of.

MR. ASQUITH

We propose to take seriatim the Orders of the day.

MR. FORSTER (Kent, Sevenoaks)

Will the right hon. Gentleman make a special effort to make progress with the Hops Bill?

MR. ASQUITH

The moment that I am satisfied that the Hops Bill is uncontroversial, the Government will give it all consideration.

SIR F. BANBURY (City of London)

How many Bills are to be taken to day?

MR. ASQUITH

As many as we can get within a reasonable time.

MR. COURTHOPE

Are we to understand the Hops Bill will not be proceeded with unless the Amendments on the Paper are withdrawn?

MR. ASQUITH

It will not be proceeded with unless I am satisfied it will be treated generally as an agreed measure.

MR. CARLILE (Hertfordshire, St. Albans)

What is the right hon. Gentleman's definition of a "reasonable time"?

[No Answer was returned.]

MR. MOONEY (Newry)

Is there any intention of proceeding with any one of the three Irish Bills on the Paper for to-day?

MR. ASQUITH

Yes, sir. We hope to get the Constabulary (Ireland) Bill.

MR. MOONEY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware a promise was given of a day's notice before this Bill was taken?

MR. ASQUITH

I am not aware of that; I hope we may proceed with the Bill.