§ Order for Second Reading read.
§ 3.58 p.m.
§ Sir John Mellor (Sutton Coldfield)I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time."
This is a very simple Measure. It merely seeks to provide that all Statutory Instruments which are required to be laid before Parliament shall be subject to annulment by a vote of either House of Parliament. It also seeks to provide that the existing period of 40 days which is allowed for a Prayer shall be extended to 50 days.
§ Mr. Charles Williams (Torquay)I beg to second the Motion.
§ Mr. Viant (Willesden, West)This is far too important a Measure to be passed in such a hurried manner. In its wisdom in the past, the House has seen the necessity for treating these Measures as they are now treated. Measures come before the House in regard to Statutory Instruments, and a Supply Day has been set aside for the purpose of going into the merits and the demerits of such measures. There is a very important principle involved, I agree. From time to time, we have had to remain in this House for considerable hours beyond the ordinary sitting in order to give consideration to Statutory Rules and Orders. Before we can allow a Bill of this kind to pass, we shall have to give ourselves a greater measure of time for consideration of the principles involved. In those circumstances, I entreat the House this afternoon not to be in such a hurry. We may be anxious to do a good day's work, but, from the point of view of some at least, we feel that we have already done a reasonable day's work.
§ It being Four o'Clock the Debate stood adjourned.
§ Debate to be resumed upon Friday next.