HC Deb 11 March 1975 vol 888 cc460-2

Question proposed, That the clause stand part of the Bill.

Mr. Keith Stainton (Sudbury and Woodbridge)

My only comment is that the proceedings seem to be far too amicable. I am wondering naively what this is all about. Perhaps we may have some contributions.

The Chairman

I may inform the hon. Member that this is a matter of consolidation.

Mr. Stainton

To know that it is a consolidation measure does not help me very much. This Bill is a fairly substantial document, running to several pages. One has seen enacted critical measures much less cumbrous than this. All we have heard are congratulations.

The Chairman

Perhaps I should inform the hon. Member that the Bill has been through the Joint Committee on Consolidation Bills, and we are discussing Clause 9.

Mr. Stainton

Whether or not it has been through that Committee I do not know. I am a member of a Select Committee and a Standing Committee, and am preoccupied with other proceedings of the House. I have intruded upon these proceedings because I wish to inform myself. We have had a speech from the Parliamentary Secretary and congratulations from the Opposition Front Bench. I do not know what the Bill is about, and where it is leading us. However naively, I believe that I am entitled to ask what the Bill is about.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke (Rushcliffe)

On a point of order, Mr. Murton. I am fortunate enough to have the Adjournment debate and I commend the Minister for the efficient and comprehensive way in which he introduced the measure. So complete was his explanation that I am sure most hon. Members will agree that it is not possible to add to our enlightenment on the important provisions of the Bill.

Question put and agreed to.

Clause 9 ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Schedules I and 2 agreed to.

Bill reported, without amendment.

Motion made, and Question, That the Bill be now read the Third time, put forthwith pursuant to Standing Order No. 56 (Third Reading), and agreed to.

Bill accordingly read the Third time and passed, without amendment.

Mr. Bob Cryer (Keighley)

I want to comment on the Third Reading.

Mr. Deputy Speaker (Mr. George Thomas)

The hon. Member is too late. The House gave me instructions that the Question on the Third Reading was to be put forthwith. Much as I would like to hear the hon. Gentleman, I shall have to await another occasion.

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