HC Deb 14 June 1911 vol 26 cc1506-7

Order read for consideration of Lords Amendments.

Mr. BOOTH

On a point of Order. I have got the Amendments to this Bill. There seems to be a number of other Amendments in addition to those which have been read out, and it would seem to be only respectful to the Lords that we should consider them all.

Mr. DEPUTY-SPEAKER

It has been the practice for a long time to read any two Amendments when there are a number, and the usual course has been adopted in this case.

Mr. BOOTH

The two Amendments that have been referred to by the Clerk are more or less drafting Amendments. The principal one to omit Clause 13 altogether and substitute a new Clause 13 is the substantial Amendment.

Mr. DEPUTY-SPEAKER

If the hon. Member desires to object he can object. Otherwise we are adopting the usual course in putting the question, "That this House doth agree with the Lords in the said Amendments."

Mr. ESSEX

What are we here for when alterations have been made, if we have no knowledge of the Amendments? I have no doubt that the practice is being followed, but the deletion of one Clause and the substitution of another does seem to me to be a substantial alteration.

Mr. DEPUTY-SPEAKER

Amendments can be seen by any Member in the Vote Office before they are passed in this House.

Mr. BOOTH

Might I explain that I personally have taken the trouble to bring these Amendments to the notice of the Chairman of the Committee, and I have asked him to peruse them, and he has advised me that I may allow them to go through without objection.

Consideration of Lords Amendments deferred.