HC Deb 09 April 1951 vol 486 c663

Order for Second Reading read.

Bill referred to the Scottish Standing Committee.—[Mr. McNeil.]

Mr. Henderson Stewart (Fife, East)

On a point of order. There was so much noise that we could not hear what was happening. Am I to understand that we have now committed the Bill?

Mr. Speaker

This is not a debatable Motion. As a matter of fact it is either aye or no.

Mr. Stewart

We could not hear what had happened. I assume that we resolved that the Rivers (Prevention of Pollution) (Scotland) (No. 2) Bill be committed. May I ask the Leader of the House, on Business—

Mr. Speaker

No question can be raised. The Bill has been committed to the Scottish Standing Committee and there it goes. We cannot debate it until it comes back.

Mr. Stewart

So I understand. I am merely asking, and I hope I may be permitted to ask, that the Leader of the House will consider—

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member cannot ask a question about a Bill which is not before the House. It is now before the Standing Committee and one must wait until it comes back. The Leader of the House has no more control over it than the man in the moon.

Commander Galbraith (Glasgow, Pollok)

As a matter of courtesy, may one be allowed to ask the Secretary of State if he could possibly allow the Second Reading of this Bill to be postponed until such time as the Scottish local authorities have had an opportunity of considering its effect?

Mr. Speaker

That is surely a matter for the Committee. It has not been read a Second time here and I gather it will be considered in principle in the Committee.