HC Deb 09 November 1908 vol 195 cc1717-8
MR. WILLIAM O'BRIEN (Cork)

I beg to ask the Prime Minister whether on the occasion of the introduction of the promised Irish Land Bill, the House will be afforded an opportunity of discussing the proposals of the Government; and whether, in view of the advanced period of the session for which the introduction of a Bill of such magnitude is fixed, he will arrange that the Bill shall be introduced at an earlier date than 23rd November.

MR. ASQUITH

Yes, Sir. There will be an opportunity for discussion. I am afraid that it is impossible to introduce the Bill before the 23rd.

MR. WILLIAM O'BRIEN

Is it not a fact that only five Government days altogether have been devoted to legislation for Ireland during this year, and not a single hour during the present portion of the session? May I ask the right hon. Gentleman kindly to consider whether, if the introduction of this Bill is postponed until within twenty working days of the end of the session, any chance which the Bill has of passing into law will not be seriously prejudiced?

MR. ASQUITH

I hope not. I am sorry to say I cannot fix an earlier day than that which has been mentioned.

MR. WILLIAM O'BRIEN

Would it be possible to have the Bill introduced under the ten-minutes rule within the next day or two, so as not to lose time, and fix the Second Reading for 23rd November?

MR. ASQUITH

I do not think that would be a good arrangement. I think it would be better that my right hon. friend should have an opportunity of making a full statement on the introduction of the measure.

*MR. REES

May I ask whether the House will be sitting at a later date than 23rd November?

MR. ASQUITH

I am afraid that it is not improbable.