HC Deb 15 June 1921 vol 143 cc409-10
57. Viscountess ASTOR

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he has Deceived copies of two Resolutions passed at a meeting held in the House of Commons in support of the Bishop of London's Criminal Law Amendment Bill, at which practically every organisation interested was represented, promising to abstain from introducing controversial Amendments; and whether, under these circumstances, he will undertake to give facilities for the passage of the Bill this Session?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. I cannot, however, at present add anything to the answer which I gave my hon. Friend on the 12th April last.

Viscountess ASTOR

Since that answer we have had a meeting, and as this is not a controversial question, could not the right hon. Gentleman really see his way to make time for it, as it will cost the country nothing? It is one of those Bills which the Government could get through. It would do a great deal of good, and I would urge the right hon. Gentleman to find time for it.

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I quite understand the importance attached to this Measure by a very large section of public opinion, and I am anxious that it should be considered by the House this Session, but I cannot make a pledge to find time for it at this stage, though I hope it may be possible to do so later.

Major C. LOWTHER

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this Bill would be by no means uncontroversial, and that it is likely to lead to considerable controversy?

Viscountess ASTOR

Only by a certain section.

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