§ 3.14 p.m.
§ Order of the Day for the Second Reading read.
THE LORD PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL AND SECRETARY OF STATE FOR COMMONWEALTH RELATIONS (THE EARL OF HOME)My Lords, this Bill is in the traditional form in which the Commons make tangible recognition of the services of their Speaker, the first Commoner in the land, upon his retirement, and it follows the accepted form. I think I need say no more about it other than that we are, I hope, happy to support it in respect of one who has performed this office with so much distinction. I beg to move that the Bill be now read a second time.
§ Moved, That the Bill be now read 2a.—(The Earl of Home.)
§ VISCOUNT ALEXANDER OF HILLSBOROUGHMy Lords, there certainly will not be any opposition to the Bill from this side of the House. It is not, I think, for us to take the place of the Commons in regard to a matter of such personal importance to them. I would only add that most of us have known the ex-Speaker for a very long time, and that we should welcome him in this Chamber.
LORD REAMy Lords, may I add that this is a matter which does not really concern this House except in so far as we have our personal opinions; and in those opinions I am quite sure we are united in welcoming the Bill.
§ On Question Bill read 2a: Committee negatived.