§ Order for Second Reading read.
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. GLADSTONE, Leeds, W.) moved the Second Reading of the White Phosphorous Matches Prohibition Bill, and expressed the hope that hon. Members would allow it to pass this stage, as it was a measure which had the approval of all sections of the House.
§ Motion made and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read a second time."
§ MR. AKERS-DOUGLASsaid he had no objection to the Second Reading being taken at the present moment. He thought it was a very desirable measure, but if there had been time he would have liked the Home Secretary to explain one or two points which arose, though they could be dealt with later. He understood that the right hon. Gentleman had been able to make some terms with the owners of patents, so that in future matches could be made by all match - makers without white phosphorous, and the particular privilege 833 would not be given to certain firms. These were points on which he wanted to be assured, and he understood that the right hon. Gentleman was in a position to give him an assurance. As far as he was concerned he raised no objection to the Second Reading.
§ MR. CLAUDE HAYsaid he did not want to prevent the Second Reading being taken, but they wished to have an opportunity for discussion. Would the right hon. Gentleman commit the Bill to Committee of the Whole House?
§ MR. GLADSTONEsaid he thought that it would be more convenient if the Bill were sent upstairs in the usual course. The points to which the right hon. Gentleman referred would receive consideration, but he hardly thought it necessary to occupy time with them at present.