§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (THE DUKE OF DEVONSHIRE)My Lords, I beg to make the Motion standing in the name of the noble Marquess, Lord Salisbury.
§ Moved, That Standing Order No. XXXIX be considered in order to its being dispensed with for the purpose of taking the remaining stages of the Irish Free State (Consequential Provisions) Bill.—(The Duke of Devonshire.)
§ LORD BUCKMASTERMy Lords, this is a Motion that always requires investigation, but I do not suppose there is any member of the House who thinks that it can be avoided in the present circumstances, when it is of the utmost consequence that the Irish Bills should pass without any delay. I propose to offer no opposition to the Motion, but I should like to take advantage of it for the purpose of asking the noble Duke a question as to what is the future course of business in this House.
§ THE DUKE OF DEVONSHIREThe Deputy Leader of the House is not here and I am afraid I am unable to answer the question, but if the noble Lord will renew the question on the adjournment I shall be very glad to give him such information as I can.
§ On Question, Motion agreed to, and ordered accordingly.