HC Deb 19 April 1923 vol 162 cc2439-40

Order for Second Reading read.

Lieut.-Colonel NALL

I wish to ask your guidance, Mr. Speaker, on a point of Order. This Bill was brought in by the hon. and gallant Member for Leith (Captain Wedgwood Benn) some weeks ago. I want to ask you whether it is in order for it to be put down for Second Reading before it has been printed and circulated to Members. I should like to ask whether the text to the Bill has been handed in at the Table, and, if so, when it will be available for Members?

Mr. SPEAKER

Does the hon. and gallant Member say that he brought in the Bill himself?

Lieut.-Colonel NALL

No, Sir; the Bill was brought in by the hon. and gallant Member for Leith.

Mr. SPEAKER

There is nothing to prevent the Second Reading being now taken.

Lieut.-Colonel NALL

Am Ito understand, Sir, that the text of this Bill has not been handed in at. the Table, and is not available for Members?

Mr. SPEAKER

I cannot say. The hon. Member can find that out at the Vote Office.

Mr. PRINGLE

On a point of Order. Is it not the case that several Government Bills have been on the Order Paper for Second Reading, and have never been circulated to the House?

Second Reading deferred till Monday next.