HC Deb 22 April 1937 vol 322 cc2227-9

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Clause stand part of the Bill."

11.32 a.m.

Mr. Batey

I have an Amendment down to leave out "thirty-nine" and to insert "thirty-eight." I want to ask why it is not in Order, because the Chairman said that both that and the new Clause following in my name were in Order. One is rather surprised that you, Sir, have made up your mind not to call them. I want to protest as strongly as I possibly can. It is the least I can do.

The Deputy-Chairman

Under the Standing Orders the question which Amendments are selected is vested in me and I am under no obligation to make any explanation. It has been the invariable practice of my predecessors and I do not propose to depart from it.

Mr. Batey

Surely you pay some respect to the Chairman of Ways and Means when he makes a statement for the guidance of the Committee.

Mr. Shinwell

We are all very anxious to respect your ruling, Sir, but I am bound to say that the opinion that you have just expressed with regard to my hon. Friend's Amendment was not expressed by the Chairman of Ways and Means on Monday. I asked him to indicate the specific Amendments that he proposed to call and, in his reply to me, he did not specifically exclude my hon. Friend's Amendment. I cannot understand why a change has taken place in the last few days.

The Deputy-Chairman

The Chairman always reserves to himself the right to select Amendments in accordance with the progress of the Debate. On this occasion both the Chairman and I decided that neither of these Amendments should be selected.

Clause 10 ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Bill reported, without Amendment; to be read the Third time upon Monday next.

Mr. Stephen

On a point of Order. I understand that the Deputy-Chairman of Ways and Means has reported something to you. In view of what happened during the night I think it would make for order in the House if he would intimate it sufficiently loudly for Members of the House to hear.

Mr. Speaker

I see no reason for any change from the ordinary practice.

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