§ Mr. BUCHANANOn a point of Order. Generally, Mr. Speaker, when you go over questions a second time you give hon. Members the opportunity of asking a question standing in the name of an hon. Friend. I had intended to ask the question standing in the name of my hon. Friend the Member for Camlachie (Mr. Stephen), who is not present, but you did not call it the second time. I should like to know whether I may put that question.
§ Mr. SPEAKERI did not call it twice, hut, if the hon. Member wants to ask it, he can do so.
§ 42. Mr. BUCHANAN (for Mr. STEPHEN)asked the Prime Minister if he will give facilities this Session for the passage of the Rent (Reduction and Control) Bill, in view of the fall in the cost of commodities since 1920?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI regret that it is impossible for the Government to give facilities for any private Member's Bill.
§ Mr. BUCHANANIn view of the fact that the right lion. Gentleman intends to reduce wages and unemployment benefit, does he not think that those who own property and receive rents ought to make an equal sacrifice?
§ The PRIME MINISTERIf my hon. Friend will look at the provisions of this Bill and the way it is drafted, he will agree that it would be no good even if it were passed.
§ Mr. BUCHANANIn view of the fact that private Members have not the advantage of the assistance of the Government draftsman, and also in view of the need of the acceptance of the principle underlying the Bill, will the Prime Minister agree to allow the Government draftsman to draft a new Bill?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI have indicated my views on the matter. If anything practical could be done, I should be glad to do so, but in the circumstances we have to deal with the actual immediate situation.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODIs the Prime Minister aware that only two months ago the Sheriff Court in Dumbarton gave factors in the West of Scotland the right to another increase? Surely the Government should step in and prevent that?