HC Deb 10 May 1967 vol 746 cc1448-9

Question proposed, That this be the First Schedule to the Bill.

Mr. Marcus Kimball (Gainsborough)

We are in some difficulty, because, although the Bill has three Schedules and 37 Clauses, it spent only three minutes in another place. Unlike the last air Bill which we discussed, we have not had the benefit of the hon. and learned Gentleman repeating the speech made by a Minister in another place. Is the hon. and learned Gentleman entirely satisfied that paragraph (7) of the Schedule gives the Corporation power to pay each member of the Board——

The Chairman

Order. I am sure that the hot. Gentleman will realise that this is a Consolidation Bill, on which discussion of the merits is not permitted. All we are able to discuss is whether the law should be consolidated and, if so, whether that has been adequately done. We cannot discuss the merits of measures being consolidated.

Mr. Kimball

With respect, Sir Eric, is the hon. and learned Gentleman satisfied that this Consolidation Measure will allow him to pay salaries to members of the Board equal to those current in industry and the City, so that we may be absolutely certain of getting people of suitable calibre——

The Chairman

Order. I am afraid that questions of that kind are out of order, because we cannot debate the effect of the Measures being consolidated. Therefore, the Minister cannot be asked about the effect of particular parts of the Bill. All that can be asked is whether the existing law is being properly consolidated.

Mr. Kimball

With respect, I am grateful for your guidance, Sir Eric. Would it be in order for this discussion to take place on Third Reading?

The Chairman

No, I am afraid that it would not.

Question put and agreed to.

Schedule agreed to.

Schedules 2 and 3 agreed to.

Bill reported without Amendment; read the Third time and passed, without Amendment.