HC Deb 31 March 1936 vol 310 cc1828-31
Mr. ATTLEE

Can the Prime Minister now state when the House will rise for the Easter Recess, and also what business it is proposed to take if the Motion on the Order Paper standing in his name (Business of the House) is passed?

The PRIME MINISTER

We hope tonight to get the Report stage and the Third Reading of the Cotton Spinning Industry Bill. We hope that the House may rise on Thursday, 9th April, when the Motion for the Easter Recesss will be taken, the House meeting on that day at Eleven o'Clock. The House will meet again on Tuesday, 21st April.

Mr. BUCHANAN

With reference to the announcement of the Easter Recess, is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Minister of Labour promised us the Unemployment Insurance Regulations by the spring, and that if the House does not reassemble until the date mentioned that will be about the end of spring? Will the right hon. Gentleman consult the Minister of Labour on this point to see that his promise is carried out?

The PRIME MINISTER

I think the term "spring" is a little wide. Spring does not begin until 21st March, and I do not think summer begins until 21st June.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Am I to take it that the Prime Minister is really announcing further delay before the introduction of the Regulations?

The PRIME MINISTER

No, Sir, certainly not.

Sir P. HARRIS

Does the right hon. Gentleman propose to postpone till after Easter the Financial Resolution on the Air Navigation Bill.

The PRIME MINISTER

I do not think we shall get it this side of Easter.

Mr. BATEY

Seeing that the Prime Minister himself stated during the General Election that the Government would deal with the means test, would it not be better to call the House together again earlier than 21st April, in order to deal with this subject?

Mr. SANDYS

Can the Prime Minister tell us whether there will be an opportunity before Easter to discuss the Argentine trade agreement, which can be denounced on 6th May—a very early date after we reassemble?

The PRIME MINISTER

There is, of course, the possibility of discussing it on the Motion for the Eastern Adjournment.

Motion made, and Question put, That the Proceedings on Government Business be exempted, at this day's Sitting, from the provisions of the Standing Order (Sittings of the House)."—[The Prime Minister.]

The House divided: Ayes, 254; Noes, 123.