HC Deb 17 January 1945 vol 407 cc322-3

Where a person is qualified to be registered in the business premises register but is a member of the forces, the merchant navy or is engaged on war work abroad, the necessary application to be placed on this register may be made on his behalf by his spouse, by the person in temporary charge of his business or by the person holding his power of attorney.—[Lieut.-Commander Hutchison.]

Brought up, and read the First time.

Lieut.-Commander Hutchison

I beg to move, "That the Clause be read a Second time."

I wish to ask a question on this Clause, the subject matter of which was discussed when the first of the new Clauses was moved on behalf of the Government by the Home Secretary. At that time I put forward an argument in favour of having somebody in this country to represent the interests of the men who are absent on overseas service. I was rather disappointed at the reply I received from the Lord Advocate, and I hope that my right hon. and learned Friend will be able to give me a firm assurance that the Government will look at this matter with sympathy, and see whether something can be done to meet the point I made when the Bill comes before the House again on the Report stage.

The Lord Advocate

I can certainly give my hon. and gallant Friend the assurance that we will look at this Clause with the greatest possible sympathy. The only thing that prevents us from moving is practical difficulties. We have not been able to devise something which would work satisfactorily, but if it is possible, perhaps with the assistance of my hon. and gallant Friend, to devise something we will do it, although I am not holding out any promise that that can be done.

Lieut.-Commander Hutchison

In view of the Lord Advocate's assurance, I beg leave to withdraw the Motion.

Motion and Clause, by leave, withdrawn.