§ Mr. EUGENE WASONMay I ask the Prime Minister whether, having regard to the importance of the Temperance (Scotland) Bill, it will not be possible to give Monday and Tuesday next week for the purpose of carrying through the Report stage and Third Reading of the measure?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe Government, as my hon. Friend is aware, have kept this Bill alive, and given it special facilities, not only from sympathy with its objects, but because it commands the earnest support of the Scottish Members, and of none more than myself. It is, therefore, with reluctance and great regret that we have come to the conclusion not to ask the House to persevere this year with its further consideration. At this stage of the Session, and under existing conditions, we feel that the House cannot be called upon to give the time and consideration to the further stages of the Bill, which its importance requires. I need not add that I hope that before long it may find its place on the Statute Book.