HL Deb 02 May 1923 vol 53 cc1055-6

Order of the Day for the Third Reading read.

THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY OF THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH (THE EARL OF ONSLOW)

My Lords, I beg to move that this Bill be now read a third time.

Moved, That the Bill be now read 3a.—(The Earl of Onslow.)

EARL BEAUCHAMP

My Lords, perhaps your Lordships will allow me to say a word or two on this Motion. I find myself panting and breathless in my effort to keep up with the whirlwind passage of this Bill through your Lordships' House. It was read a Second time on Wednesday, was taken through its Committee stage on Thursday and is down for Third Reading to-day. I have tried hard to consult with some friends of mine who were anxious that an Amendment should be inserted in the Bill, and the noble Earl in charge of the Bill has been exceedingly kind in considering this Amendment. Unfortunately, the Amendment which I wished to move has not met with the approval of the Home Office. I have been unable to consult with my friends as to whether they would be able to submit another form of words which would be more likely to commend itself to the Home Office, and if the noble Earl can see his way to defer consideration of the Bill until I have had a little more time I shall be very much obliged.

THE EARL OF ONSLOW

Certainly.

THE MARQUESS OF SALISBURY

For what day would the noble Earl like the Bill to be put down?

EARL BEAUCHAMP

Any day next week, when there is not too much other business.

THE MARQUESS OF SALISBURY

Let us say Wednesday.

THE EARL OF ONSLOW

My Lords, then I beg to move that the debate be now adjourned till Wednesday.

Moved accordingly, and, on Question, Motion to adjourn the debate agreed to.