HOUSING (ADDITIONAL POWERS) BILL. (Hansard, 22 December 1919)

§ Mr. HOGGE
Perhaps my right hon. Friend will tell us generally what is the effect of these Amendments?

§ The MINISTER of HEALTH (Dr. Addison)
These are largely drafting Amendments. Some of the others are the result of an understanding arrived at in the House on the Report stage. I would call attention to the first Amendment to Clause 5, after the word "construction," to insert the words "within their area," which will require a consequential Amendment further on. Then the prohibition of the demolition of houses is dealt with in the other House by giving an appeal to the Minister. One important Amendment is designed to carry out a pledge given in this House with the view of protecting commons. Another Amendment is directed to carry out an understanding arrived at to discriminate between the London County Council, the City Corporations and the borough councils. There is no other Amendment of consequence until we come to one which is in pursuance of the policy laid down by an Amend- 1160 ment, moved by private Members and pressed upon us in this House, and which was out of order as moved. It was inserted in another place, and the Government now advises the House to accept it. It is very much wanted by the local authorities. If the question of privilege should arise, I shall ask the House to waive it. Otherwise, we accept all Amendments as they are on the Paper.

§ Mr. ACLAND
As the points which have been explained by the right hon. Gentleman are rather detailed and complicated, would it not be better to adjourn consideration of them until after the discussion on Ireland? Is that possible?

§ Mr. BONAR LAW (the Leader of the House)
I am sorry to say that that course is really not possible, if we are to adjourn as understood, because we cannot be certain that the changes we make here will not require reconsideration in another place.
Question put, and agreed to.
Lords Amendments considered accordingly.