HC Deb 07 August 1925 vol 187 cc1711-2

Motion made, and Question proposed, That the Proceedings on Government Business be not interrupted at this day's Sitting at Four or half-past Four of the clock, and may be entered upon at any hour although opposed; that at Three of the Clock, unless previously concluded, Mr. Speaker shall put every Question necessary to conclude the Proceedings on the Consolidated Fund (Appropriation) Bill; and that at half-past Seven of the clock, unless previously adjourned, Mr. Speaker shall adjourn the House without Question put. provided that he shall have then reported the Royal Assent to the Consolidated Fund (Appropriation) Bill."—[The Prime Minister.]

Captain BENN

I think this Motion deserves a word of comment, as I think it is the first time a Government has ever introduced the Guillotine on the Appropriation Bill. The Committee stage of the Bill and the Report and Third Reading are being taking in one day under the Guillotine. I merely make that comment because it is appropriate to the muddled condition of public business and the hurried way in which the holiday feeling is being exploited in order to push on business, without any regard to Parliamentary decency or public good.

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Baldwin)

As my hon. and gallant Friend has thought fit to make one comment, I will just add one comment to his. I cannot think that he is unaware that these arrangements have been come to by general agreement and for the general convenience of all Members of the House.

Question put, and agreed to.

Mr. SNOWDEN

May I ask the Prime Minister what business will be taken when the House resumes in the autumn?

The PRIME MINISTER

On Monday, 16th November: the Expiring Laws Bill, Second Reading; Criminal Justice Bill, Report and Third Reading, and the Second Readings of the following Bills. Married Women (Torts) [Lords]; Wild Birds Protection; Coastguard [Lords]; Forestry; Legitimacy [Lords], and other Orders.

On Tuesday, 17th November: Expiring Laws Bill, Committee; Public Health (Scotland) Amendment Bill, Report and Third Reading; and the Second Readings of the following Bills—Education (Scotland); Circuit Courts and Criminal Procedure (Scotland) [Lords]; Sheriff Courts and Legal Officers (Scotland); Roads and Streets in Police Burghs (Scotland), and other Orders.

On Wednesday, 18th November: Tithe Bill, Report and Third Reading, and other Orders.

The business for Thursday and Friday will be announced when we resume in the autumn.

On Monday, 16th November, I shall move the usual Motion to take the time of the House for Government business.