HC Deb 06 April 1943 vol 388 cc497-8
Mr. Arthur Greenwood

In view of the fact that the Committee stage of the Catering Wages Bill was not finished last Thursday, as it was generally assumed it would be, could the Prime Minister make a statement on the course of Business for to-day and the next Sitting Days?

The Prime Minister

As my right hon. Friend has reminded us, the Committee stage of the Catering Wages Bill was not completed last Thursday, and in consequence we must resume and conclude the Committee stage to-day. We shall also take the Motion to approve the China Clay (Charges) Order.

The Business previously anounced for consideration to-day will be taken on the next Sitting Day, and the Business for the next Sitting Day will be taken on the third Sitting Day. The Debate on Colonial Administration in the West Indies will have to be postponed till a later date.

I may say that my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary, the Leader of the House, has returned quite safely to this country after a most successful mission in the United States. The journey was not without its rigorous aspects, and I thought that it would be advisable that he should have a day or two in the country after the very strenuous time he has been having. He will, however, be ready on the third Sitting Day, if the House will think it convenient, to give an account of his mission which will not be of a controversial character in any way. I trust that the House will welcome that procedure being adopted.

Mr. Gallacher

In view of the Catering Wages Bill being carried over till to-day, will the Prime Minister seriously consider an extra Sitting Day?

The Prime Minister

I am not advised that that will be necessary. The Government are always watching the movement of Business to get as much done as possible with the greatest convenience to Members.

Mr. Maxton

The Prime Minister said that the statement of the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs will not be controversial. Does that mean that the House will not have an opportunity of discussing it?

The Prime Minister

That was the idea I was endeavouring tactfully to insinuate.

Earl Winterton

Shall we have the Prayer in which many hon. Members are greatly interested on the second or third Sitting Day?

The Prime Minister

The next Sitting Day is the day appointed for the Prayer.