§ Sir WILLIAM BYLESMay I ask a question of which I have given private notice to the Prime Minister, whether he can make any statement to the House as to the Government intentions with regard to the Insurance Bill?
§ Mr. ASQUITHIn answer to my hon. Friend the Government had intended to propose, by special Resolution, a very liberal arrangement of the time to be given to the Bill. Inquiries, however, which we have made justify us in hoping that we may secure the passage of the Bill in equal, or, perhaps, less time, by means of the ordinary facilities provided by the Rules and Standing Orders of the House. In these circumstances we propose to begin, the Committee stage of the Bill on Wednesday next, and I shall be guided in our future action by the progress made with the measure.
§ Lord HUGH CECILWill it be possible to arrange that the Committee stage shall be carried on continuously, and not be interrupted by Supply or other business?
§ Mr. ASQUITHPractically, yes. There will be Fridays and there possibly may be other contingencies.
§ Mr. BOOTHCan the right hon. Gentleman say what is the amount of time referred to as being a reasonable time to consider this Bill in Committee?
§ Mr. ASQUITHNo, Sir.