§ Mr. PETOasked the President of the Board of Trade when the Second Reading of the Railways Bill will be taken; whether he can promise that at least two days will be given for the Second Reading Debate; and whether he can let the deputation of traders, represented by the Mansion House Association, have his reply to the points raised before Whitsuntide in order that it may have adequate consideration before the date fixed for the Second Reading, in view of the importance of the trade questions involved?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Buxton)I am afraid that I cannot yet fix a date for the Second Reading of this Bill, but I hardly think that so much time as is suggested will be required for the Debate on the general principles of the measure. Ample opportunity would be given in Committee for the discussion of the clauses. I am considering carefully the points put before me by the 1545 deputation representing the Mansion House Association. I am seeing various interests concerned, and I am afraid, therefore, that I shall not be in a position to send a reply before Whitsuntide.
§ Mr. PETOCan the right hon. Gentleman give the House an assurance that there will be a reasonable interval, after we have received the reply—say, at least a fortnight—before the Second Reading is taken?
§ Mr. BUXTONI cannot say there will be a fortnight, but there will be sufficient time, for the associations to consider the reply.
§ Mr. JOYCEWill the right hon. Gentleman give attention to the opinions of the various Chambers of Commerce in the country with regard to this Bill—as to its probable effect on traders.
§ Mr. BUXTONI am going to see various Chambers of Commerce, and I hope to be able to show them the evil effects they fear may be the result of the Bill are not likely to be so great as they anticipate.