§ Second Reading deferred till this evening, at Seven o'Clock.
Mr. AshlonOn a point of order. This Bill was originally set down for discussion at 7 o'clock on Wednesday, 25th March. It was not until the previous evening—Tuesday,—at 11 o'clock, on the Motion for the Adjournment, that it was learned that the House would adjourn on Wednesday, and it was 808 assumed by most hon. Members that Wednesday's business would be postponed and Thursday's business would stand. It was not until approximately 24 hours ago that it was learned that this Bill had been put down for discussion at 7 o'clock tonight.
I realise the difficulties that Ilford Corporation have had with this Bill, but I consider that a matter of considerable principle is involved here. Some hon. Members have already made their arrangements, and it is possible that people who will not be here would have liked to be here for the consideration of the Bill.
§ The Chairman of Ways and Means (Sir Charles MacAndrew)It was not until three minutes ago that it was known that this Bill had been put down to be discussed at 7 o'clock this day. Everything had been done in accordance with Standing Orders.
§ Mr. AshtonI merely raised the question for your Ruling, Mr. Speaker.
§ Mr. SpeakerI am obliged to the hon. Member. This kind of thing has happened before. The rule with regard to private business which is set down for 7 o'clock by the Chairman of Ways and Means is that if it is not reached for any reason it stands over automatically until the next day.