§ THE MARQUESS OF SALISBURYMy Lords, having regard to the large number of Amendments which stand upon the Paper in respect of the Representation of the People Bill, it might be for the convenience of your Lordships if the Government would be good enough to state what arrangement of business they propose in reference to the Committee stage of the Bill. One cannot help feeling that in ordinary circumstances we might have some difficulty in getting through the Committee stage in a reasonable time, and it has occurred to some of us that if the House met at half-past three instead of at half-past four o'clock, it would give additional opportunity for debate. I do not know how far such a suggestion would meet the views of my noble friend the Leader of the House. At any rate, I respectfully submit it to him.
§ THE LORD PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL (EARL CURZON OF KEDLESTON)My Lords, the idea had already been conveyed to me that it was the feeling of a considerable number in your Lordships' House that it would be for the general convenience if you did commence the proceedings in Committee, with a view to obtaining such expedition as is possible, at 3.30 rather than at 4.30 in the afternoon, and if that be the general sense of the House I am only too willing to conform to it. I might say that personally the position is one which I am not inclined to welcome. It is not an easy task for a member of a War Cabinet which sits once every day, and often twice in the day, to be sure of regular attendance at your Lordships' House from half-past three until eight o'clock every day. I will, however, do my best to be regular in my attendance, but if I am not always here I am sure your Lordships will excuse me on public grounds.