HC Deb 18 July 1940 vol 363 cc403-4
Mr. Lees-Smith

May I ask the Prime Minister whether he will state the business of the House for next week, and also for to-day?

The Prime Minister

So far as to-day is concerned, after the conclusion of the business of Supply and the bringing in of the Appropriation Bill, we desire to take the Second Reading of the Workmen's Compensation (Supplementary Allowances) (No. 2) Bill. The business for next week will be:

Tuesday: The Chancellor of the Exchequer will open his Budget. Committee and remaining stages of the Emergency Powers (Defence) (No. 2) Bill.

Wednesday: General Debate on the Budget Resolutions.

Thursday: If necessary, until seven o'clock, continuation of general Debate on the Budget Resolutions. After seven o'clock we propose to take the Committee and remaining stages of the Workmen's Compensation (Supplementary Allowances) (No. 2) Bill.

Mr. Hore-Belisha

Will my right hon. Friend find it possible at a reasonably early date to make a statement on the course of the war in Africa?

The Prime Minister

The Government are very much in the hands of the House. If the House wish it, that can be done. But I am not at all sure that a very full, frank and lucid description of the events which have taken place, or are impending, in that area would be likely to assist those who are immediately in charge of military operations.

Mr. Maxton

Will the Prime Minister be able to indicate whether an adjournment such as normally takes place is contemplated in August, and, if so, for how long? There is a number of points outstanding which I am sure many Members would like to discuss, and we should like to know what time is available.

The Prime Minister

Undoubtedly we shall rise, but under what conditions or for how long has not yet been settled, nor has the moment been reached when a final decision on that issue need be taken.

Ordered, That this day, notwithstanding anything in Standing Order No. 14, Business other than the Business of Supply may be taken before Eleven of the Clock; and that if the first Resolution reported from the Committee of Supply of the 17th July shall have been agreed to before Ten of the Clock, Mr. Speaker shall proceed to put forthwith the Questions which he is directed to put at Ten of the Clock, under paragraph 7 of Standing Order No. 14."—[The Prime Minister.] Resolved, That this House, at its rising this day, do adjourn till Tuesday next—[The Prime Minister.]