HC Deb 29 June 1938 vol 337 cc1911-5
Mr. Attlee

May I ask the Prime Minister whether he has any statement to make with regard to to-morrow's business?

The Prime Minister

In view of the present state of business it is essential for us to conclude the Committee stage of the Finance Bill this week, and, if possible, the remaining stages of the Bacon Industry Bill so that it may go to another

place. Conversations have taken place through the usual channels with regard to a rearrangement of the business to-morrow to admit of an opportunity being found for the discussion of the Motion for the appointment of a Select Committee on the Official Secrets Acts. It is proposed that the order of business for to-morrow shall be as follows:

  1. 1. Motion for the appointment of the Select Committee.
  2. 2. Conclusion of the Committee stage of the Finance Bill.
  3. 3. Conclusion of the remaining stages of the Bacon Industry Bill. So far as the Bacon Industry Bill is concerned, I hope that good progress will be made to-day and that there will be very little left for consideration to-morrow.
The Supreme Court of Judicature Bill announced for to-morrow will be postponed until a later date.

Mr. Attlee

Is it proposed to enter upon the remaining stages of the Finance Bill at a very late hour? I do not think it will be possible for anyone to say how long the Debate upon the Motion may take.

The Prime Minister

I hope that, as this is a preliminary stage, there will not be an unduly long discussion on the Motion for the appointment of the Select Committee, but we must get the Committee stage of the Finance Bill this week.

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, 247; Noes, 133.