HC Deb 01 November 1916 vol 86 cc1783-4

Considered in Committee.

[Sir FREDERICK BANBURY in the Chair.]

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That it is expedient to authorise the payment of remuneration in respect of duties performed under any Act of the present Session to provide for the registration of firms and persons carrying on "business under business names."

Sir H. DALZIEL

May I ask what are the particular expenses for which it is intended to provide?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Prety-man)

The cost of registration is to be paid nominally out of the public funds, but will be covered actually by the registration fees paid into the public purse, and the cost of the registration will, therefore be paid out of the public purse, and we must have this Resolution.

Mr. RAWLINSON

There is no difficulty about the expenses, but a certain right lion. Member has always made it a rule to suggest a limited sum, but he is in a somewhat different position on this occasion, and it is not because I wish to take any advantage of that circumstance, but only because I want the hon. Gentleman to reply that I put a question as to the amount.

Mr. PRINGLE

Perhaps the representative of the Government will give us some assurance, if there is a charge under this Bill, that it will be on such a scale as to cover all the expenses.

Mr. PRETYMAN

I am quite certain that is the intention, and I can undertake that it will be carried out. I would be the last person to take advantage of the present peculiar circumstances to transgress the principle which has been so often advocated by the right hon. Gentleman now in the Chair.

Question put, and agreed to.

Resolution to be reported to-morrow.