§ 53. Mr. LESLIE SCOTTasked the Prime Minister whether he has observed the expressions of public opinion in favour of passing the Mental Deficiency Bill at the earliest possible date; whether he can still find time to pass it this Session; and whether, if he cannot, he can make any statement as to its reintroduction at an 1877 early date next Session with a view to its passing into law next Session?
§ The PRIME MINISTERAs I have already stated, I fear the Government will not be able to find time to pass the Mental Deficiency Bill this Session, but my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary hopes to reintroduce the Bill early next Session embodying the Amendments made by the Standing Committee.
Mr. WORTHINGTON-EVANSWill the right hon. Gentleman say whether time will be given for the consideration of the Feeble-Minded Control Bill which has already passed through Committee?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo, Sir; lam afraid I cannot give any undertaking.
§ Mr. MOOREIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Home Secretary gave a specific pledge that this Bill would be passed this Session?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat is subject, as all such pledges are, to Parliamentary exigencies.