§ EARL BEAUCHAMP:My Lords, may I be allowed to ask a question? When discussing the Unemployment Insurance (No. 2) Bill on the Second Reading on July 24, the noble and learned Lord, Lord Parmoor, said it was important that the Bill should receive the Royal Assent not later than next Wednesday, which is to-morrow. I am afraid it is hardly possible that that can happen now, but it would be for the general convenience if we heard what the noble and learned Lord had in his mind with regard to procedure
§ LORD PARMOOR:It is this. I am. afraid that we cannot pass the Bill to-night, because of the Standing Orders. It will be put down to-morrow, and I had intended to ask noble Lords opposite if we might take it as the first Order to-morrow. That would enable it to go early to the other House in order that it may be dealt with.
§ THE MARQUESS CURZON OF KEDLESTON:I think that that proposal is quite reasonable, and that your Lordships will be disposed to agree with it. Might I, as I am upon my feet, ask the noble Lord what arrangement he contemplates for business in the next few days? As I understand, an arrangement has been made with the Lord Chancellor, by which the first place on Thursday is given to the Indian debate, and I take it that a Notice will be placed on the Paper providing for that. Will the Lord Chancellor tell me what are his intentions as to other business?
§ THE LORD CHANCELLOR:I think that on Monday it would be well to take Committee on the Housing Bill. As regards Friday, I think my noble friend Lord Parmoor has a measure for that day.
§ LORD PARMOOR:I propose to take the Second Reading of the Agricultural Wages Bill on Friday.
§ THE LORD CHANCELLOR:On Friday also there is a Royal Commission at a quarter to four. I think we might sit on that day at twelve, and that would enable us to finish the sitting towards four o'clock.
§ EARL BUXTON:With regard to the Unemployed Insurance Bill, it will go to-morrow to the House of Commons, and they will have to consider certain Amendments made by your Lordships. Is it likely to come back to us on Thursday?
LORD PABMOOR:I am unwilling to make any statement with regard to that until I know how the Amendments are dealt with in another place. I can only says that it is desired to deal with the measure as quickly as possible, subject, of course, to proper consideration.