§ 26. Mr. KELLYasked the Home Secretary whether any decision has been arrived at on the Old Age, Widows', and Orphans' Pensions Bill passed by the Isle of Man Legislature, which is awaiting assent?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI informed the hon. Member of the decision last July; it was that I could not recommend the Measure for the Royal Assent in the form in which it had been passed.
§ Mr. KELLYIs there any probability of an early decision being made by the right hon. Gentleman, so that the Manx people may have the opportunity of enjoying a better Act than we have in this country?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSMy decision has already been made. The Manx Parliament, if they like, can pass an amended Bill, which will have my consideration.
§ Mr. KELLYDoes that mean that the right hon. Gentleman is asking the Manx Legislature to worsen the Bill that was laid before him?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI cannot enter into the details of the Bill, but I told the hon. Member in July that I could not recommend the Bill for the Royal Assent.
§ Mr. WEDGWOOD BENNUnder what powers does the right hon. Gentleman exercise this right to veto Acts of the Manx Legislature?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThe hon. Member must put a question down on that point.