§ Mr. Arthur GreenwoodMay I ask the Prime Minister what is likely to be the course of business to-day?
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)It is proposed to move the suspension of the Eleven o'Clock Rule, in order to cover the proceedings on the Emergency Powers (Defence) Bill, which it is important to pass in both Houses to-day. As to the 2 course of business, I have consulted Mr. Speaker and the Leaders of the Opposition and I think it would meet the convenience of the House if a general Debate took place on the Business of the House (Emergency) Motion. I, therefore, propose, in moving that Motion, to make a full statement on the present international situation. When the Debate is concluded and the Motion agreed to, we shall proceed to consider the Emergency Powers (Defence) Bill and pass it through all its stages. The Bill must then go to another place, and we desire to obtain the Royal Assent to the Measure to-night. I should inform the House that arrangements have been made for prints of the Bill to be available in the Vote Office immediately. In view of the business before us, I venture to hope that it will be found possible to begin the consideration of the Emergency Powers (Defence) Bill at an early hour this evening.
§ Mr. AttleeMay I ask the Prime Minister whether he can make any statement with regard to the future sittings of the House?
§ The Prime MinisterI propose to make a statement later in the day.
§ Ordered,
§ "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.]